Does Anyone Know What We’re Eating?

For years, the FDA has defended itself by claiming that certain colorants only cause cancer in rodents, not humans. However, this narrative is beginning to shift. Last week, the FDA officially banned the use of Red Dye No. 3 in foods, beverages, and medications after decades of evidence showing it caused cancer in male laboratory rodents. It took more than 30 years for this decision to be made—is this fair? I don’t think so.

If we think about it, this situation underscores how supply and consumption chains prioritize their interests over public health. Many substances used in industries—particularly the food industry—have harmful effects, yet they remain widely used. These include additives like artificial colorants, which play a key role in marketing psychology and consumer behavior.

In the United States, certain groups of citizens have been pressuring the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to ban harmful additives from food products. Red Dye No. 3 is a prime example. This cherry-red chemical is found in various foods and candies. As Melanie Benesh, Vice President of the Environmental Working Group, stated, "Red Dye No. 3 should be at the top of the FDA’s list of banned colorants. Every product, whether domestically produced or imported, should eliminate this dye."

While some companies have switched to natural colorants derived from sources like beets, red cabbage, or even insects, Red Dye No. 3 is still prevalent in candies, yellow rice, mashed potatoes, and milkshakes for kids, to name just a few. It’s worth noting that this dye is already banned in Europe, Australia, and New Zealand, with exceptions like maraschino cherries.

Despite these bans, the International Association of Color Manufacturers argues there’s no evidence of harm to humans. However, emerging data links not only Red Dye No. 3 but also three other artificial colorants to health issues, including risks for children.

The question remains: Does anyone know what we’re really eating? For now, if you find Red Dye No. 3 listed on the label of your food or drink, do yourself a favor and steer clear.