Red Dye No. 3 Was Banned: Now What?

In January 2025, the US FDA banned food dye and coloring Red Dye No. 3. You guessed it, it gives certain foods and medications a cherry red color. According to the FDA site, it’s in “candy, cakes and cupcakes, cookies, frozen desserts, and frostings and icings, as well as certain ingested drugs.” Keep in mind, some companies use Red Dye No. 40 instead (which might also be evaluated in the future). Food companies have until 2027 to make the switch. So what does this mean for you?

It means those foods still won’t be suddenly labeled as a “health food” just because they are Red Dye free. Your strawberry shortcake cupcake with cherry red icing is still a cupcake with icing. While I’m glad the FDA is evaluating the chemical in our foods, It’s the tip of the health iceberg.

If part of your health goals include better energy, better metabolism, better glucose numbers, better sleep, better everything, then you’re probably not eating many of those foods on a regular basis anyhow.

However for those of you who react to red dyes, this is still really good news. Some people (including children) notice that when they consume red dyes, they experience behavior issues - irritability, lack of focus, inattention, and hyperactivity.

By the end of 2027, the California School Food Safety Act will ban Red Dye No. 40, Yellow Dye No. 5, Yellow Dye No. 6, Blue Dye No. 1, Blue Dye No. 2, and Green Dye No. 3 in schools citing behavioral issues in children when consuming these products.

If you hadn’t considered food dye before in relation to your child if they are experiencing behavioral issues, it’s something to follow up on. However, we also know that ultra processed foods in-general can set off a blood sugar rollercoaster and cause behavior issues such as irritability or inattention. This can be challenging in schools who rely on sweet treats, questionable cafeteria foods, and packaged desserts as part of their program. Just as I preach that women need adequate protein, veggies, fruits, fiber, and healthy fats - your child does too.

How do you know whether or not something has dye in it?

When reading labels on foods or drugs, it should clearly state if red dye (or any color dye) is included. You can also ask your pharmacist when picking up a prescription or search for ingredients online of your particular medication. Some drugs have gone so far as to now be dye-free! Over-the-counter medications will also list the ingredients usually known as “inactive ingredients” on the box.

In the end, I’m glad that the FDA is taking more notice however it goes much deeper than removing a food dye to improve your health. I have my eyes set on healthy food affordability and accessibility coupled with education around HOW to both be and feel healthy!