The Ban on Red No. 3 Dye: A Step Toward a Healthier Future

In a move that has sparked discussions across the food and wellness industries, the FDA has recently taken steps to ban Red No. 3 dye from America’s food and drug supply. This synthetic dye, once a staple in candies, baked goods, and even medications, has been under scrutiny for decades due to concerns about its potential health risks and cancer risk. Red dye number 3 is a synthetic food coloring derived from petroleum. It has been used in the United States since its approval in 1907 to give foods and drinks a vivid red hue. The FDA first flagged issues with Red 3 in the 1980s after animal studies linked the additive to cancer in lab rats. While no conclusive evidence connects the dye to cancer in humans, its potential risks have led to bans or severe restrictions in several countries, including the European Union, Australia and Japan.

While it’s a significant victory for consumer safety, this decision also serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of being mindful about what we put into our bodies. At Energy Fitness, this aligns seamlessly with our mission to inspire optimal health and wellness through education, empowerment, and mindful choices.

Why Red No. 3 Is Being Banned

Red No. 3, also known as erythrosine, has long been used to give products a bright, eye-catching hue. However, research has linked this additive to health concerns, including potential carcinogenic effects and behavioral issues, particularly in children. While some countries banned its use years ago, the United States continued to allow it in certain products—until now. The FDA’s decision to finally phase out Red No. 3 reflects growing awareness about the importance of reducing harmful chemicals in our daily lives.

The Hidden Dangers in Everyday Products

It’s easy to overlook the fine print on labels, but additives like Red No. 3 are often hidden in products we consume regularly. From colorful cereals to chewable vitamins, this dye has made its way into foods and medications marketed as “healthy” or “kid-friendly.” Unfortunately, even seemingly harmless products can contribute to a cumulative effect on our health over time. At Energy Fitness, we encourage our clients to adopt a holistic approach to wellness that includes reading labels, choosing whole foods, and reducing exposure to unnecessary chemicals.

Foods that contain Red Number 3:

• Candies, like candy corn, lollipops, jelly beans and candy necklaces.
• Vegan “meats,” including imitation bacon and sausages.
• Icings, especially red or pink frostings.
• Sausages and hot dogs.
• Cotton candy.
• Cereals

Specific brands/items that contain Red Number 3:

Candies

• Pez Candy Assorted Fruit
• Dubble Bubble Original Twist Bubble Gum
• Brach’s Candy Corn
• Jelly Belly candies
• Trolli Sour Crunchy Crawlers

Baked Goods and Snacks

• Entenmann’s Little Bites Party Cake Mini Muffins
• Betty Crocker Fruit by the Foot
• Toaster pastries
• Cookies with red icing or decorations

Dairy and Frozen Desserts

• Strawberry-flavored milk
• Certain ice cream flavors and frozen yogurt
• Ice pops and frozen fruit bars

Fruit Products

• Maraschino cherries
• Some fruit cocktails

Beverages

• Yoo-hoo Strawberry Drink
• Certain sodas and fruit-flavored drinks

Medications and Supplements

• Some cough syrups
• Gummy vitamins
• PediaSure Grow & Gain Kids’ Ready-to-Drink Strawberry Shake
• Vyvanse
• Benadryl is artificially colored with red dye, but the medication also comes in clear liquid and clear liquid capsules.

Energy Fitness and the Power of Informed Choices

Our philosophy at Energy Fitness revolves around empowering individuals to take charge of their health. Just as the FDA’s ban on Red No. 3 advocates for cleaner products, we advocate for cleaner, more intentional lifestyles. Whether it’s helping clients fuel their bodies with nutritious foods, teaching them the importance of hydration, or guiding them toward sustainable fitness routines, we believe that every choice matters.

This ban also highlights the importance of education—one of the core pillars of our Energize Method. By staying informed about what’s in your food, supplements, and medications, you can make decisions that align with your wellness goals. We’ve always said that knowledge is power, and this latest FDA ruling proves just how crucial it is to stay aware.

Some companies have already replaced synthetic dyes like Red 3 with natural alternatives, including beet juice, red cabbage pigments, and carmine, a coloring made from insects. However, industry groups such as the National Confectioners Association have expressed concerns about reformulation’s potential challenges and costs.

What You Can Do

As we move forward into a world where Red No. 3 and similar additives are becoming relics of the past, here are a few ways you can take control of your health:

Just be aware that before the deadlines you must be your own advocate. Food manufacturers must remove Red No. 3 from their products by January 2027 to comply with the FDA’s ruling. Producers of ingested drugs will have an additional year, until January 2028, to reformulate their products. The phased timeline aims to give manufacturers adequate time to identify and transition to alternative coloring agents.

1. Read Labels Carefully: Check for synthetic dyes and other additives in your food, drinks, and medications. Look for natural alternatives when possible.
2. Choose Whole Foods: Prioritize fresh, minimally processed ingredients that don’t rely on artificial colors or flavors.
3. Stay Informed: Keep up with regulatory changes and scientific research to make educated decisions about your health.
4. Seek Guidance: At Energy Fitness, we offer nutrition coaching tailored to your unique needs. Our holistic approach ensures that your body gets the fuel it needs to perform at its best.

A Step Toward Whole-Body Wellness

The ban on Red No. 3 is more than just a regulatory change; it’s a symbol of progress toward a healthier future. At Energy Fitness, we celebrate steps like these as they pave the way for a more mindful and intentional approach to living. Just as we customize fitness and nutrition plans for our clients, we encourage everyone to personalize their wellness journeys by making choices that support long-term health.