The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently announced a ban on the use of Red No. 3 dye in food and cosmetic products. This decision comes after years of concerns about the safety of this artificial colorant.
Red No. 3, also known as erythrosine, has been used to add a cherry-red hue to a variety of products, including baked goods, some fruit cocktails, candy corns, protein shakes, ice pops, sausages, lollipops, pudding, vegetarian meats, bacon bits, strawberry milk, jellybeans and other candies, colored beverages, and even medications.
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While the FDA’s ban does not extend to cosmetics, it’s a significant step towards ensuring consumer safety. The agency’s decision highlights the importance of ongoing research and regulation of food additives.
Why Red No. 3 Is a Red Flag for Our Health
Artificial dyes like Red No. 3 are often used to make processed foods look more appealing, but at what cost? Studies suggest that these synthetic colorants can disrupt thyroid function and may even contribute to cancer risk. While the immediate risk to most people may be low, the cumulative effect of consuming products with harmful additives can have long-term consequences, especially for Black communities already at higher risk for chronic illnesses like hypertension, diabetes, and cancer.
What’s more, Black communities often have less access to fresh, whole foods and may rely on heavily processed items where artificial dyes like Red No. 3 are common. The FDA’s decision shines a light on the hidden dangers lurking in these everyday products.
Regulations on Red No. 3 and synthetic dyes vary globally, requiring consumers to stay informed and proactive about their health. In the Caribbean and Africa, weaker regulations and reliance on imported foods call for advocacy on stricter labeling laws, support for local produce, and education on natural alternatives. The EU enforces stricter controls, banning Red No. 3 in food but allowing it in cosmetics, urging consumers to choose additive-free products. In Canada, the dye is permitted in limited uses, prompting a preference for natural alternatives. Meanwhile, many Asian countries widely use synthetic dyes, highlighting the need for stricter regulations, awareness campaigns, and a return to fresh, traditional diets.
Steps Black Communities Can Take Now to Cut Out Red No. 3
- Read Ingredient Labels Carefully
Start checking the labels of the foods and products you buy. Red No. 3 may appear in unexpected places, such as cough syrups, candies, and even baked goods. By identifying and avoiding products that contain this dye, you can take immediate steps to protect your health. - Choose Whole, Natural Foods
Focus on incorporating more whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins into your diet. Natural foods are free from synthetic additives and provide essential nutrients that support overall health. - Support Black-Owned Health Food Brands
Many Black-owned businesses are committed to providing healthy, natural alternatives to heavily processed foods. By supporting these brands, you not only invest in your health but also uplift your community. - Educate Your Family and Community
Share information about the risks of Red No. 3 and other artificial additives with your loved ones. Knowledge is power, and by spreading awareness, you can help others make better choices for their health. - Advocate for Better Food Options
Push for better access to fresh, affordable, and additive-free foods in your community. Whether it’s through local food co-ops, urban gardening programs, or lobbying for grocery stores in underserved areas, your voice can make a difference.
Why This Matters for Our Future
For too long, communities of color have been disproportionately impacted by unhealthy food environments and limited access to information about the risks of food additives. The FDA’s decision to ban Red No. 3 is a step in the right direction, but it’s just the beginning. Black communities must take ownership of their health by making conscious choices about what they consume and demanding accountability from food manufacturers and regulators.
This isn’t just about a single dye—it’s about recognizing the systemic issues that have put our health at risk and taking steps to change the narrative. Especially since most of these food categories is food that is fed to our kids. By staying informed, choosing wisely, and advocating for healthier options, we can ensure that our future generations thrive.
Let this ban serve as a wake-up call: our health is our wealth. Protect it, nurture it, and never settle for less.
