The FDA is cracking down on Red 3 dye in food and drinks, urging consumers to check labels for safety.
City: Washington, D.C. The FDA is stepping in to tell food and drug makers to ditch Red 3 dye from their products. This dye has been linked to cancer in rats, so it’s a big deal.
Even though it was banned in cosmetics ages ago, it still showed up in snacks and other foods. Now, consumer advocates are keeping an eye on companies that still use it. They often switch to safer options, but it’s smart to check labels for Red 3, also known as erythrosine or FD&C Red No. 3.
So, what should you look out for? In the candy aisle, Brach’s Conversation Hearts and Candy Corn have Red 3, while Pez and Ring Pops do too. But Swedish Fish and Wild Cherry Lifesavers use a different dye, Red 40.
When it comes to baked goods, if you see red icing, it might have Red 3. For example, Betty Crocker Red Decorating Icing contains it, as do some cookies with red sprinkles. But Pillsbury’s Funfetti frosting uses Red 40 instead.
In dairy, watch for strawberry-flavored items. TruMoo Strawberry Whole Milk has Red 3, but Edy’s Strawberry Ice Cream opts for beet juice instead.
For fruit products, many maraschino cherries have switched to Red 40, but Kroger’s Extra Cherry canned fruit cocktail still contains Red 3.
And don’t forget beverages! Ensure Original Strawberry Nutrition Shake has Red 3, while many others like Hawaiian Punch and Kool-Aid use Red 40.
Lastly, some gummy vitamins and medications might have Red 3 too. But many brands, like Vicks and Mucinex, have switched to Red 40.
Stay safe and keep an eye on those labels!
