With the FDA’s recent ban on the coloring dye additive, it brings up the question of what is actually bad about Red Dye 3? Most candies, baked goods, sodas, cereals, and more that are at the forefront in grocery stores contain this harmful dye, so let’s evaluate why it is important to limit your consumption.
- Increased risk of thyroid disorders
Red 3 stops the thyroid from absorbing iodine, a necessary ingredient to making thyroid hormones. Also, the dye precludes an enzyme that is vital in transforming one thyroid hormone into another, causing thyroid dysfunction. In experiments conducted on rats and pigs, the dye caused the formation of thyroid tumors in addition to hormone abnormalities.
- Effects on the Brain
Through experiments testing rats and Red Dye 3, it was found that the dye increases oxidative stress. This is when there is a higher presence of free radicals (can be naturally produced during bodily processes such as metabolism but can also be from ingestion of pollutants) than antioxidants in the body. This leads to damage of the cell structure and tissues, which alters communication between neurons. Additionally, it is believed that Red 3’s effect on oxidative stress is connected to an increase in amyloid-beta plaques, which are one of the key components of Alzheimer’s disease.
It is important to read ingredient labels when at the supermarket, because although the FDA banned the use of Red Dye 3, manufacturers have until January of 2027 for food products and until January of 2028 for drugs and medications.