FDA Bans Red Dye No. 3: What Families Need to Know

red candy

The FDA is phasing out red dye No. 3 due to health concerns, giving families and manufacturers time to adjust.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently announced that it will revoke the authorization of FD&C Red No. 3, also known as red dye No. 3, by January 2027 for foods and January 2028 for ingested drugs. This decision reflects growing concerns about the potential health effects of this petroleum-based colorant, which is commonly found in gummies, frostings, ice cream cones, toaster pastries, and certain medications. As Catholics, we are called to respect the dignity of the human person, which includes promoting good stewardship of our bodies and the health of our families.

The Health Concerns

The concerns over red dye No. 3 are both anecdotal and scientific. According to Yahoo Life, some parents have observed behavioral changes in their children after consuming foods containing this dye. One parent noted, “We have noticed that when [our daughter] has red food dye, her ability to regulate emotions becomes impaired.” This aligns with observations from others who report hyperactivity, difficulty focusing, and irritability, particularly in children with preexisting attention issues.

Scientific studies have also raised alarms. The FDA’s announcement cited research linking high levels of red dye No. 3 to cancer in male rats. While the FDA acknowledges that human exposure is generally lower, it advises caution. Dr. Jamie Alan, a pharmacology and toxicology professor, explained that red dye offers “no nutritional or positive impacts on health” and only poses potential harm. She encourages parents to avoid the dye when possible, opting for natural alternatives like beet extract.

Catholic Social Teaching and Food Safety

Our faith calls us to prioritize the health and well-being of our families and communities. The Catechism of the Catholic Church reminds us that the human body is a temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 6:19-20). As such, decisions about food safety resonate deeply with our moral responsibility to care for ourselves and others.

California has already taken a bold step in this direction. Last October, Governor Gavin Newsom signed the California Food Safety Act, which bans red dye No. 3 and other potentially harmful additives from food and beverages sold in the state. Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel, who authored the bill, emphasized that companies can easily transition to safer alternatives already used in Europe. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to protecting public health and ensuring transparency in food labeling.

Practical Steps for Catholic Families

While regulatory changes are underway, parents can take proactive steps to protect their families. Dr. Daniel Ganjian, a pediatrician in California, advises families to be mindful of food labels. “Parents are realizing that these food labels are getting longer, and they have a right to know what effect these foods may have on their children,” he said.

Families can also explore dye-free or naturally colored options for snacks and treats. While this may require additional effort, it is a meaningful way to honor the sacred responsibility of caring for loved ones. Additionally, parents can advocate for greater transparency in food labeling and support legislation that prioritizes health and safety.

As Catholics, our faith compels us to uphold the dignity of the human person, including in the seemingly small choices we make about food and health. The FDA’s decision to phase out red dye No. 3 invites us to reflect on how we can align our dietary habits with our moral values. By choosing safer, more natural options, we not only protect our families but also affirm the inherent worth of every person created in God’s image.

Let us pray for the wisdom to make informed choices and for the courage to advocate for the common good in all aspects of life, including the food we share at our tables.

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