F,D &C Red
F,D &C Red is a synthetic food dye that is used to give foods and drinks a bright, cherry-red color. However, there are concerns about the safety of F,D &C Red. According to a review of the nine currently US-approved dyes, all of them raise health concerns of varying degrees. Red 3, in particular, has been found to cause cancer in animals, and there is evidence that several other dyes are also carcinogenic. Three dyes (Red 40, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6) have been found to be contaminated. The consumption of FD&C dyes has been associated with neurobehavioral behavior in some children.
There are no case studies regarding the benefits of F,D &C Red. Instead, there are studies that raise concerns about its safety. In 1990, the FDA banned the use of Red 3 in cosmetics and externally applied drugs, based on its analysis of unpublished animal research suggesting a link to thyroid cancer. The safety of artificial colors added to foods has long been the subject of scientific debate. The FDA has prohibited a number of them, including reds 1, 2, and 4, and greens 1 and 2.
There is no recommended dosage for F,D &C Red. However, it is recommended that regulatory authorities require better and independent toxicity testing, exercise greater caution regarding continued approval of these dyes, and in the future approve only well-tested, safe dyes. There are potential side effects of F,D &C Red. The consumption of FD&C dyes has been associated with neurobehavioral behavior in some children. Red 3 has been found to cause cancer in animals, and there is evidence that several other dyes are also carcinogenic.
