Red dye 3 is a synthetic dye derived from petroleum that is used in foods to give them a bright red color. It is still used in many packaged foods, including candies, cakes, beverages, and even medicine, despite being banned in cosmetics and externally applied drugs since 1990 due to its carcinogenic properties. Red dye 3 has been linked to other health problems, such as child behavioral issues and reproductive health decline. Foods that commonly contain red dye 3 include:

• Peeps
• Hostess Ding Dongs
• Betty Crocker Fruit by the Foot
• Dubble Bubble chewing gum
• Entenmanns Little Bites
• Ketchup, barbecue sauce, and sometimes mustard
• Soft drinks, especially those with cherry, strawberry, or raspberry flavoring
• Chips and crackers that contain nacho or cheese flavoring, including Doritos and Flamin Hot Cheetos
• Sausage casing and vegetarian meat products to make them look more realistic
• Over-the-counter medications and vitamins, including Childrens Tylenol and Childrens Motrin

It is important to note that while most red dyes are considered safe by the FDA, some food colorings are banned in other parts of the world like Europe.