The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a ban on the color additive Red 3 in food products. This decision is being viewed as an important step towards addressing public health concerns, according to Dr. Melinda Ring, director of the Osher Center for Integrative Health at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.

Dr. Ring stated, "Animal studies dating back to the 1980s demonstrated that high doses of this synthetic dye increased tumor risks." The dye, used in some candies and snacks, has been associated with cancer risks in rats. Although it was banned from cosmetics in 1990, it continues to be present in certain foods, supplements, and oral medicines like cough syrup.

Dr. Ring emphasized the significance of the FDA's decision by saying, “This ban is a positive step toward safer food, especially for children, who are more likely to consume artificially colored snacks. Still, the decades-long delay underscores the need for more responsive regulatory processes when credible evidence of harm emerges.” She added that prioritizing science-based decisions would contribute to a healthier and more transparent food system.

Food manufacturers have until 2027 to remove Red 3 from their products.

In addition to her role at the Osher Center for Integrative Health, Dr. Ring serves as a clinical associate professor of medicine and medical sciences at Feinberg. She is available for media interviews today from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., and tomorrow regarding the implications of the FDA's decision and the necessity for quicker regulatory action concerning food safety.

For interview arrangements with Dr. Ring, contact Ben Schamisso at ben.schamisso@northwestern.edu.