The Truth About Food Dyes: What’s Being Banned & Healthier Swaps You Can Make

In a major shift toward prioritizing public health, certain synthetic food dyes are facing increased scrutiny—and even bans—in the U.S. and beyond. If you’re someone who cares about what goes into your body (or your kids’), now is a great time to get informed and empowered about what’s changing in the food industry.

🔬 What’s Happening?

In October 2023, California became the first U.S. state to ban four food additives that have been linked to health concerns, including one commonly used food dye:

• Red Dye No. 3 (Erythrosine)
• Potassium bromate
• Brominated vegetable oil
• Propylparaben

(Source: California Legislative Information, AB418)

These ingredients are often found in brightly colored candies, baked goods, soda, and processed snacks. While these additives are already banned in the European Union, they’ve remained widely used in the U.S.—until now.

Red Dye No. 3, in particular, has been linked to potential behavioral issues in children, including hyperactivity, and was also found to cause thyroid tumors in lab animals, which prompted the FDA to ban it in cosmetics back in 1990—but not in food. That’s now changing.

(Source: Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI))

🚫 What to Avoid on Labels

Look for and limit these artificial colors and additives, especially in foods targeted to kids:

• Red 3
• Red 40
• Yellow 5 (Tartrazine)
• Yellow 6
• Blue 1 & Blue 2
• Green 3

These dyes are commonly found in fruit snacks, cereals, sports drinks, ice pops, and even pickles and chips.

✅ Healthier Swaps to Try

You don’t have to swear off color—but choosing naturally colored foods can make a big impact:

Final Thoughts

These bans are a win for public health and a sign that we’re moving toward more transparent and health-conscious food systems. But you don’t have to wait for a law to make changes. Becoming a label reader and choosing naturally colored foods can be a small yet powerful step for your well-being.

Pro Tip: When shopping, if it looks neon, check the label twice.

Stay informed. Eat well. And feel good knowing you’re making choices that support your body and your brain.