Halloween Candy Warning: Red Dye 3 Raises Serious Health Concerns

As Halloween nears and shoppers begin stocking up on candy, many may be purchasing treats that contain Red Dye 3—a chemical banned in Europe and restricted in the U.S. for use in cosmetics. Consumer Reports has issued a warning about the dye, also known as Red Dye No. 3, which has been linked to cancer in animals. Despite these concerns, the dye remains an ingredient in many popular Halloween candies sold in the U.S. today. While the immediate health risks to humans are still debated, calls for stronger regulations are growing.

Popular Halloween Candies Containing Red Dye 3

Consumer Reports has identified several Halloween treats that use Red Dye 3, which has also been associated with hyperactivity and other behavioral issues in children. These candies include Brach’s Candy Corn, Brach’s Autumn Mix, Brach’s Mellowcreme Pumpkins, Nerds Candy Corn, Double Bubble bubble gum, Pez Candy, Amos Lollipop Rings, and Create-A-Treat Halloween House.

Brian Ronholm, Consumer Reports’ director of food policy, emphasized the importance of parents being informed about the potential dangers of these candies. “Manufacturers need to stop using this harmful chemical when safer alternatives are available,” Ronholm urged.

Cancer Risks and FDA’s Position on Red Dye 3

Red Dye 3 has been found to cause cancer in animals, particularly in studies involving rats. However, the FDA has allowed its continued use in food, asserting that the way the dye causes cancer in animals does not apply to humans. This stance differs from California’s, where the dye will be banned in food products beginning in 2027 due to growing health concerns.

Red Dye 3, derived from petroleum, provides the bright cherry-red color seen in many candies and drinks. Although it was banned from use in cosmetics in 1990 after evidence of its cancer-causing potential in animals, it is still permitted in food. Consumer advocacy groups like Consumer Reports are pushing the FDA to extend the ban to all food products, dietary supplements, and ingestible medications.

Manufacturers’ Response and Upcoming Changes

Ferrara, the company behind Brach’s candies, has defended its products, stating they meet all FDA regulations. However, the company has been phasing out Red Dye 3 since early 2023 and plans to eliminate it completely by the end of 2026.

Ferrara explained, “In the current stage of our reformulation, over half of Brach’s products no longer contain Red No. 3.” The company is gradually moving toward safer alternatives.

Push for a Complete Ban on Red Dye 3

While some companies are voluntarily eliminating Red Dye 3, advocacy groups believe the FDA must take stronger action to protect consumers. “It’s been over three decades since Red Dye 3 was banned in cosmetics due to its cancer risks, yet it’s still allowed in food,” Ronholm noted, urging the FDA to ban the dye completely.

As families prepare for Halloween, parents should be mindful of the potential risks associated with Red Dye 3. The growing debate over the dye’s safety continues to raise concerns about its long-term effects on human health.