The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced January 15 it will ban the use of red dye No. 3 in food, beverages and ingested drugs, more than 30 years after scientists discovered links to cancer in animals. 

CNN reports that manufacturers using red No. 3 in food and ingested drugs have until January 15, 2027, and January 18, 2028, respectively, to reformulate their products, according to the FDA Constituent Update. Foods imported to the United States also must comply with the requirements. 

A synthetic color additive made from petroleum and chemically known as erythrosine, red dye No. 3 is used to give foods and beverages a bright cherry-red color. It was banned in Europe, including then-member nation the United Kingdom, in 1994, albeit with an exception for maraschino cherries.

The move follows a November 2022 petition submitted by multiple advocacy organizations and individuals, including the Center for Science in the Public Interest and the Environmental Working Group, which cited links to cancer. 

The decision by the federal agency also follows in the footsteps of California, whose government banned the additive in October 2023. 

Red dye No. 3 is found in at least dozens of candy, food and beverage products, but some of the most popular brands either never used, or have already stopped using, the additive.