FDA Moves Forward With Phased Repeal of Red No. 3 Food Dye

Introduction
A long-running debate over a common food dye has reached a new regulatory milestone this week.

The Decision
The FDA confirmed it will end the administrative stay on its earlier order and proceed with repealing the listing of FD&C Red No. 3 as an approved color additive, first in food by January 2027 and then in ingested drugs by January 2028.

Why the Dye Was Under Scrutiny
Red No. 3 has faced years of scrutiny after studies linked high doses to health concerns in animal testing, prompting consumer advocacy groups to push for its removal from the American food supply, even as it remained in use in a range of candies, baked goods and medications.

Industry Response
Food and pharmaceutical manufacturers now have a defined runway to reformulate products that still contain the dye, giving the industry time to transition to alternative colorants without abrupt supply disruptions.

What Consumers Should Know
Products containing Red No. 3 will remain legally available until the respective deadlines, so consumers concerned about the additive should check ingredient labels in the meantime.