FDA Bans Red Dye No. 3 — Here’s What You Need to Know

Our Cofounder/CEO, Katie Thomson MS, RD, was interviewed by "The Everymom" about a FDA's recent ban of Red Dye No. 3.

Summary of FDA's Ban of FD&C Red Dye No. 3

• As of January 15, 2025, the FDA no longer allows the use of FD&C Red Dye No. 3 in food and ingested drugs in response to a 2022 color additive petition. And based on the Delaney Clause of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act). 
• FINALLY! Red Dye No. 3 was banned in cosmetics in 1990. 35 years later, we're finally seeing a ban in foods and medicine that line our grocery aisles and school vending machines.

When will the Red Dye ban totally take effect?

• The change won't be immediate. It'll take some time as companies are given some time to reformulate and introduce new products without Red Dye No. 3.
  • Food products have until January 15, 2027
  • Medicine / drug products have until January 18, 2028

What is Red Dye No. 3?

• According to the FDA’s release, Red Dye No.3 “is a synthetic food dye that gives certain foods and drinks a bright, cherry-red color.”
• It’s derived from petroleum. 
• It's also known as Erythrosine
• The FDA estimates that FD&C Red No. 3 is not as widely used in food and drugs when compared to other certified colors.

What Foods Commonly Contain Red Dye No. 3?

• FD&C Red Dye No. 3 has been primarily used in certain processed foods such as candy, cakes and cupcakes, cookies, popsicles and frozen desserts, frostings and icings -- as well as certain ingested drugs. 
• Check your labels! You may find it in other surprising foods like plant-based meat alternatives.

Why Did FDA Ban Red Dye No. 3 in Food and Medicine?

• According to the release, the FDA reviewed data presented in a 2022 color additive petition and determined that FD&C Red Dye No. 3 causes cancer in male laboratory rats when exposed to high levels of this ingredient. 
• The FDA said this is due to a hormonal mechanism that occurs in male rats.
• According to the FDA, studies in other animals or in humans did not show the same effect and there is no evidence showing Red Dye No.3 causes cancer in humans.

Our Note from Square Baby Cofounder / CEO, Katie Thomson MS, RD

"As a mom and registered dietitian, I am hopeful this ban sets a precedent for stricter oversight as it pertains to other questionable additives in our food supply. Parents are increasingly demanding transparency and cleaner ingredients, and this ban shows that these voices are being heard.

At Square Baby, we have always banned all artificial ingredients and additives.  All of the bright colors you'll see in our rainbow of purees comes from organic veggies and fruits. Because that's what nature intended. And simply what's best for our babies and families."

We've long known that the first 1000 days of a child's life is a critical window where taste preferences are being shaped and the nutrition they consume plays a pivotal role in shaping long-term eating habits and health outcomes.  

This ban should serve as a major wake-up call for the processed food industry. Parents are well-educated and demanding better for their families.

The processed food industry, especially brands creating food products for our youngest eaters, needs to prioritize nutrition science, food safety, and quality -- over profit. They need to understand and respect the latest research and recommendations.  They need to create products that are appealing to parents -- not advertised to our little ones with fake bright colors. They need to prioritize nutrient density for the sake of our littles bodies and developing brains.

Eat the rainbow. Naturally.

Ultimately, the goal is balance and variety.

We recommend a variety of different colors, textures, and food groups all working together to support your baby's growth and development. It's about creating a diverse, balanced diet that offers a rainbow of colors. Different colored foods often signify different nutritional profiles, offering a spectrum of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytonutrients.

Babies deserve better. And parents deserve a science-based, transparent brand they can trust.

That's why we created Square Baby.

Where truth, transparency, quality, and science-based nutrition is our north star -- and veggie-first, balanced meals are our promise. With Square Baby, our dietitian-designed meals are simply natural, organic whole foods. No added sugar, salt, additives, or preservatives. 

Square Baby was cofounded by a Registered Dietitian & Prenatal Genetic Counselor. Our company’s ethos is rooted in nutrition science -- and all about “Square”, balanced meals. We’re here to provide 100% Daily Nutrition. 100% Balance. 100% Natural. 0% BS.

Square Baby’s Commitment to Transparency, Quality and Science-Based Nutrition:

At Square Baby, we take pride in our unwavering commitment to quality, transparency, and integrity. Unlike other competitors, we provide clear and verifiable information about the sourcing and processing of our products. Here’s how we ensure that our products stand out:

1. Certified Ingredients: All our ingredients are USDA certified organic. We use certification to guarantee the authenticity of our claims, providing parents with peace of mind. 
1. We’ve partnered with the best farms and suppliers to select our organic ingredients. 
2. Safety & Transparency: We openly share detailed information about our ingredient sourcing, production processes, and nutritional content. Our labeling is straightforward and accurate, with no hidden additives or misleading claims.
1. We use a 3rd-party lab testing for heavy metals, plasticizers, pesticide residues, and over 400 other contaminants 
2. We share these results on our blog.
3. Nutritional Excellence: Our baby food products are nutrient-dense. Each product is perfectly crafted to contain vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and a variety of high-quality proteins to meet 100% of your baby’s daily recommendations. 
1. Square Baby offers more veggies than any other food group in every meal. 
2. We have ½ the sugar and 2x the protein and healthy fat compared to most pouches. 
3. We are proud members of PHA’s “Shaping Early Palates” where we have met PHA’s rigorous Veggie Icon criteria 
4. Sustainable & Ethical Practices: We maintain strict ethical standards in our production processes, ensuring that our products are not only safe but also produced with respect for the environment.
1. Our containers are recyclable, using recycled materials that are free of BPA, phthalates, plasticizers, and fillers. 
2. Additionally, our meals are shipped in recyclable boxes that have 100% compostable insulations. 
5. Research & Education: We are committed to educating parents about the latest research, recommendations, and best choices for their babies. Our website offers resources and expert advice on baby nutrition, allowing parents to make informed decisions. 

Please note: This blog post is for information purposes only and shouldn’t be used as personal, health, nutritional, or medical advice. Above all, always consult with your pediatrician before making any decisions about your child's health or readiness for various foods.