Dyes are used to add color to things like foods, drugs, and make-up. These dyes are studied by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) to make sure they are safe to use.
You may have seen headlines about red dye #3 and wondered if it’s something you need to worry about. This colorful ingredient shows up in many foods, drinks, and even medicines your child may take. Here’s what you need to know, based on the latest science and updates from the FDA.
A quick look:
- Red dye 3 (a synthetic dye) is being phased out of food and medications because of long-term safety concerns.
- Synthetic dyes do not cause allergies, but some children may show sensitivity them.
- Limiting artificial dyes is a smart step.
What is red dye #3?
Red dye #3 (also called erythrosine) is a synthetic food coloring used to give foods, candies, and some medications a bright red or pink color. It’s found in products like:
- Fruit snacks and gummies
- Frosted cereals
- Ice pops
- Baked goods
- Children's cough syrups or chewable medicines
You’ll often see it listed on the ingredient label as "Red 3" or "FD&C Red No. 3."
Does red dye 3 cause allergies?
No. There are no reports of allergic reaction to synthetic red dyes such as FD&C Red #40 and FD&C Red #3.
A natural dye called carmine (also known as cochineal extract) is the only red dye known to cause allergic reactions. Allergic reactions to dyes, such as hives or swelling of the tongue, are rare.
However, some children — especially those with ADHD or behavioral concerns — may be more sensitive to food dyes. Some parents report that their children experience hyperactivity, trouble focusing, or irritability after consuming certain foods.
These reactions aren’t dangerous, but they can be frustrating.
It’s important to note that red dyes have been shown not to cause hyperactivity in rigorous scientific studies.
If you think your child is sensitive to food dyes, talk to your pediatrician.
Why is red dye 3 in the news?
In 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced it would begin phasing out red dye 3 in foods and dietary supplements. This decision came after research showed that, in large amounts, the dye caused cancer in lab animals. The dye has already been banned in cosmetics since 1990 — but until now, it was still allowed in food.
The phase-out won’t happen overnight. It may take time before the dye is fully removed from store shelves.
What does this mean for families?
This FDA decision doesn’t mean you need to throw out everything in your pantry. But it does mean:
- Red dye 3 is no longer considered safe for long-term use in food or medications.
- You may want to check ingredient labels, especially on items your child eats often or medications they take regularly.
- More companies will begin switching to safer, natural colorings.
Should I be concerned about colored medications?
Because medications are generally made with synthetic red dyes, patients will not have an allergic reaction to the red dye. However, they could be allergic to the medication itself.
Commonly prescribed medications that contain other synthetic red dye include, but are not limited to:
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol): contains D&C Red #33
- Amoxicillin (Amoxil): contains D&C Red #40
- Diphenhydramine (Benadryl): contains D&C Red #33 and FD&C Red #40
- Midazolam (Versed): contains D&C Red #33
Although it is not commonly used anymore, there are a few medications in the United States that still contain carmine, the only natural red dye known to cause allergic reactions. If your child has a true allergy to carmine, it is important to be aware of what medications may contain this as an ingredient. These resources can help:
How can I avoid red dye 3?
While a little red dye 3 from a cupcake or occasional dose of medicine isn’t likely to harm your child, it makes sense to limit regular exposure, especially now that safer alternatives are widely available.
It’s hard to avoid every food dye, but here are some tips:
- Check the ingredient list. Look for "Red 3" or "FD&C Red No. 3."
- Choose dye-free versions of vitamins, snacks, and meds when possible.
- Shop simple. Foods with fewer ingredients (like fruits, veggies, plain dairy, and whole grains) are less likely to contain dyes.
- Look for natural colorings like beet juice, paprika, or annatto.
- If your child takes medication or vitamins regularly, ask your doctor if there’s a dye-free version.
Questions?
Talk to your pediatrician if you’re concerned about your child’s diet, behavior, or sensitivity to food dyes. They can help you make a plan that works for your family.
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Dyes are used to add color to things like foods, drugs, and make-up. These dyes are studied by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) to make sure they are safe to use.
You may have seen headlines about red dye #3 and wondered if it’s something you need to worry about. This colorful ingredient shows up in many foods, drinks, and even medicines your child may take. Here’s what you need to know, based on the latest science and updates from the FDA.
A quick look:
- Red dye 3 (a synthetic dye) is being phased out of food and medications because of long-term safety concerns.
- Synthetic dyes do not cause allergies, but some children may show sensitivity them.
- Limiting artificial dyes is a smart step.
What is red dye #3?
Red dye #3 (also called erythrosine) is a synthetic food coloring used to give foods, candies, and some medications a bright red or pink color. It’s found in products like:
- Fruit snacks and gummies
- Frosted cereals
- Ice pops
- Baked goods
- Children's cough syrups or chewable medicines
You’ll often see it listed on the ingredient label as "Red 3" or "FD&C Red No. 3."
Does red dye 3 cause allergies?
No. There are no reports of allergic reaction to synthetic red dyes such as FD&C Red #40 and FD&C Red #3.
A natural dye called carmine (also known as cochineal extract) is the only red dye known to cause allergic reactions. Allergic reactions to dyes, such as hives or swelling of the tongue, are rare.
However, some children — especially those with ADHD or behavioral concerns — may be more sensitive to food dyes. Some parents report that their children experience hyperactivity, trouble focusing, or irritability after consuming certain foods.
These reactions aren’t dangerous, but they can be frustrating.
It’s important to note that red dyes have been shown not to cause hyperactivity in rigorous scientific studies.
If you think your child is sensitive to food dyes, talk to your pediatrician.
Why is red dye 3 in the news?
In 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced it would begin phasing out red dye 3 in foods and dietary supplements. This decision came after research showed that, in large amounts, the dye caused cancer in lab animals. The dye has already been banned in cosmetics since 1990 — but until now, it was still allowed in food.
The phase-out won’t happen overnight. It may take time before the dye is fully removed from store shelves.
What does this mean for families?
This FDA decision doesn’t mean you need to throw out everything in your pantry. But it does mean:
- Red dye 3 is no longer considered safe for long-term use in food or medications.
- You may want to check ingredient labels, especially on items your child eats often or medications they take regularly.
- More companies will begin switching to safer, natural colorings.
Should I be concerned about colored medications?
Because medications are generally made with synthetic red dyes, patients will not have an allergic reaction to the red dye. However, they could be allergic to the medication itself.
Commonly prescribed medications that contain other synthetic red dye include, but are not limited to:
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol): contains D&C Red #33
- Amoxicillin (Amoxil): contains D&C Red #40
- Diphenhydramine (Benadryl): contains D&C Red #33 and FD&C Red #40
- Midazolam (Versed): contains D&C Red #33
Although it is not commonly used anymore, there are a few medications in the United States that still contain carmine, the only natural red dye known to cause allergic reactions. If your child has a true allergy to carmine, it is important to be aware of what medications may contain this as an ingredient. These resources can help:
How can I avoid red dye 3?
While a little red dye 3 from a cupcake or occasional dose of medicine isn’t likely to harm your child, it makes sense to limit regular exposure, especially now that safer alternatives are widely available.
It’s hard to avoid every food dye, but here are some tips:
- Check the ingredient list. Look for "Red 3" or "FD&C Red No. 3."
- Choose dye-free versions of vitamins, snacks, and meds when possible.
- Shop simple. Foods with fewer ingredients (like fruits, veggies, plain dairy, and whole grains) are less likely to contain dyes.
- Look for natural colorings like beet juice, paprika, or annatto.
- If your child takes medication or vitamins regularly, ask your doctor if there’s a dye-free version.
Questions?
Talk to your pediatrician if you’re concerned about your child’s diet, behavior, or sensitivity to food dyes. They can help you make a plan that works for your family.