The FDA bans Red dye 3 foods, a synthetic dye known for its vibrant cherry-red hue, commonly found in foods and beverages. Also known as erythrosine or FD&C Red No. 3, this dye has been linked to cancer in male laboratory rats—a compelling reason for its removal from our food supply. But manufacturers have until 2027 to reformulate their products.

Many items with Red Dye 3 are part of a larger group of ultra-processed foods. 👉 Read our investigation into ultra-processed foods and how they show up in SNAP purchases.

What Is Red Dye 3 Used In?

You can commonly find Red Dye 3 in:

• Candies (especially gummies, jelly beans, and licorice)
• Maraschino cherries
• Baked goods (frostings, cake decorations, some doughnuts)
• Fruit snacks and gelatins
• Medications and cough syrups
• Cosmetics (like lipsticks and blushes)
• Toothpaste and mouthwash

At GoCoCo, we analyzed over 430,000 items from the USDA database to uncover the impact of this additive.

‍What products have red dye 3 in our supermarkets? We answer:

• Red 3 is in approximately 9,000 products in the USDA database.
• And it disproportionately affects items loved by children:
  • 26% Baking Decorations & Dessert Toppings
  • 16% Chewing Gum & Mints
  • 13% Candy
  • 11% Cookies & Biscuits

Think about it: these are staples at birthday parties, school lunches, and holiday celebrations—moments we cherish but might unknowingly expose kids to those unnecessary synthetic dyes

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Our blog is full of practical ideas to help you feel your best, one small step at a time. Whether you're curious about food, habits, or everyday routines, there’s something waiting for you.

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List of foods with red dye 3

Curious about what foods have Red 3?

We’ve prepared a searchable red dye 3 foods list of all 9,000 affected products. The list works best on desktop.
Scroll through or use the search bar to see if your favorite items made the list!

Let’s work together to make healthier choices for the next generation.

Download GoCoCo and easily identify all banned additives.‍

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_{Disclaimer: This red dye 3 foods list has been compiled using data from the USDA database and other reliable sources. While we strive for accuracy, errors or omissions may occur due to the complexity and variability of product formulations. The presence of Red 3 in any product listed here is based on the best available information at the time of publication and may not reflect recent changes or reformulations by manufacturers.}

_{GoCoCo assumes no liability for any inaccuracies or for decisions made based on this information. We encourage consumers to verify ingredient labels directly on product packaging for the most up-to-date and accurate details.}

If you're concerned about what's really in your food, you're not alone. Some products with Red Dye 3 are also being looked at by lawmakers and public health experts.

👉 See which food products may be at risk of being banned in certain U.S. states.

FAQs

Do twizzlers have red dye 3?

No, it contain Red 40 — a food dye that is regulated in California schools due to its potential adverse effects on children's behavior.

Does big red have red dye 3?

No, it contain Red 40 — a food dye that is regulated in California schools due to its potential adverse effects on children's behavior.

Do hot cheetos have red dye 3?

No, it contain Red 40 — a food dye that is regulated in California schools due to its potential adverse effects on children's behavior.

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