SILVER SPRINGS, MD — The FDA has amended its color additive regulations and revoked the authorization of the use of FD&C Red No. 3. The decision is in response to a November 2022 color additive petition requesting the agency to review whether the Delaney Clause of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act applied.
The synthetic food dye offers a bright, cherry-red color to products such as cakes and cupcakes, cookies, frozen desserts, and frostings and icings.
In a constituent update, the FDA notified that food manufacturers who use the dye have until Jan. 15, 2027, to reformulate their products.
“The American Bakers Association (ABA) reaffirms commercial baking manufacturers’ unwavering commitment to food safety and consumer trust,” said Rasma Zvaners, VP of government relations at ABA. “We respect the US Food and Drug Administration and its dedication to ensuring the safety of the food supply. ABA remains steadfast in our collaboration with FDA and other regulatory agencies to lead science-based decision-making at the federal level and uphold the highest standards of food safety and quality.”
This decision follows a string of announcements that could impact CPG products in the baking industry, such as a proposal to include key nutrition information on the front of packaging and a revamp of the ‘healthy’ claim.
In 2021, the FDA approved the industry’s first natural blue food coloring agent.
