- Health Hacker
- Posts
- The US just banned Red Dye 3
The US just banned Red Dye 3
But they’ve known it was dangerous for decades

Good morning friends,
For over 30 years, the FDA knew that Red Dye No. 3 was harmful.
It’s been linked to cancer, behavioural issues, and possibly autism - yet it stayed in foods marketed directly to children.
Finally, it’s being banned. But the damage has been done.
Let’s take a closer look.

What is Red Dye No. 3?
It’s a synthetic colouring used in:
• Cereals
• Candies
• Flavoured drinks
• Processed snacks
The same dye was banned in cosmetics in 1990 - but somehow stayed in food for more than three decades.
Why?
Because regulations lag. And industry pressure is real.
Why this ban matters now
The FDA has announced that Red No. 3 will be fully phased out by 2027.
But this isn’t just about one dye.
It’s about a pattern of slow action, despite long-standing research.
We can’t afford to wait for the system to catch up.
What you can do now to protect your family
Read ingredient labels
Avoid not just Red No. 3 - but also Red 40, Yellow 5, and Blue 1.
If it sounds like a chemical, it probably is.Choose natural colourings
Look for products using beet juice, turmeric, spirulina, or carrot extract instead.Go fresh whenever possible
Snack on berries, orange slices, apples with almond butter - foods that nourish instead of harm.
This is your reminder:
Health decisions shouldn’t wait for regulation.
You have the power to protect yourself and your family - starting today.
Concerned about what hidden ingredients are doing to your child’s health?
Book a call with my team and let’s clean up your nutrition from the inside out.
To your health,
