The FDA announced its decision to ban the use of Red Dye 3 in food products— a major public health victory long championed by Congressman Frank Pallone. As the ranking member of the Energy and Commerce Committee, Pallone has consistently urged the FDA to take this step to protect children from the harmful effects of this known carcinogen.
Last month, Pallone wrote to the FDA, urging swift action on the issue. He also joined Appropriations Committee Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro earlier this month to push for immediate measures. His advocacy was crucial in today’s decision.
“Today is a great day for parents across the country. Red Dye 3 is a known animal carcinogen and has been shown to have long-lasting neurobehavioral effects on children. Moreover, it has been banned for use in cosmetic products for over 30 years. Simply put, this chemical certainly has no place in products that are on grocery store shelves. I applaud the FDA for doing the right thing by protecting kids and ensuring Red Dye 3 will no longer be used in our food,” Pallone said.
Red Dye 3, chemically known as erythrosine, is a colorant that has been authorized for use under FDA regulations, despite the agency banning its use in other products over 30 years ago. Today, the FDA announced it will no longer allow the use of Red Dye 3 as a food additive in all commercially available food products and in ingested drugs.
In December, Pallone wrote to the FDA, urging the agency to take swift action to ban Red Dye 3. Earlier this month, he joined DeLauro to again advocate for the agency to ensure the dye is no longer used in food products.
