Red Dye No. 3, also known as erythrosine or FD&C Red No. 3, is a synthetic dye derived from petroleum that is used in foods to give them a bright red color. It has been linked to various health issues, including cancer in laboratory animals, child behavioral issues, and reproductive health decline. The FDA banned its use in cosmetics in 1990 after studies showed it caused cancer in laboratory animals. However, the additive is still used in many packaged foods. A California state legislature passed a bill to ban foods with Red Dye No. 3 and three other additives by 2027. Here are some common foods that contain Red Dye No. 3:

• Candies, such as Skittles, Nerds candies, Trolli gummies, and Brach’s candies
• Cakes, boxed cake mixes, and frosting
• Beverages, such as fruit cocktails, soda, and some varieties of iced tea and juice
• Snack foods, such as chips, crackers, and Flamin Hot Cheetos
• Meat and vegetarian products, such as sausage casing and vegetarian bacon
• Over-the-counter medications, such as vitamin gummies and Childrens Tylenol and Childrens Motrin

The FDA requires manufacturers to list Red Dye No. 3 as an ingredient on food labels.