FDA Bans Cancer-Causing Red Dye No. 3

You’ve probably seen it a thousand times without even noticing…

Red No. 3: The bright red dye used in everything from candies, to cereals, to beverages.

Think red gatorade, red skittles, red Dorito chips…

It creates that super unnatural looking, fake pop of red that you see in junk food. 

Its primary purpose is to make candy, drinks, and other processed foods more attractive, so you buy it.

Its function is purely for aesthetics. 

Well…

The FDA has just announced that it's permanently banning the use of Red No. 3. 

It will be completely phased out by 2027 for food products and 2028 for ingested drugs.

Why?

Red No. 3. has been shown to cause cancer in laboratory animals, and behavioral issues in children.

This isn't the first time we've heard about this…

Studies from the 1980s revealed its carcinogenic effects in animals and its potential to contribute to hyperactivity in children…

It was even fully banned in cosmetic products back in 1990.

Yet it remained in foods, especially those marketed towards children, like candy and cereal.

This has unnecessarily put everyone’s health at risk of cancer for decades.

3 Ways to Protect Yourself Now

The ban is still in progress, but you don’t have to wait until 2027 to avoid it.

Here’s what you can do:

• Read labels carefully. Avoid foods with Red No. 3, Red No. 40, Yellow No. 5, and Blue No. 1. These are still almost always used in processed foods, and are just as bad.

•  Look for companies that explicitly state they use natural coloring agents like beet juice, turmeric, or spirulina.

• Swap artificially colored, processed snacks for vibrant, natural options like fresh berries, orange slices, or apple slices with almond butter for added protein and flavor.

What This Really Tells Us

Change is happening, but it’s painfully slow.

Waiting for the FDA to act is still not an option…

It takes decades for harmful chemicals to be removed from our food—even when the evidence is undeniable.

Your health is your responsibility.

Don’t wait for someone else to take care of it—take control today.

Until next time,

Kashif Khan

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Information on this site is provided for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical advice from your physician or other medical professional. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease or prescribing any medication. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, promptly contact your regular healthcare provider.