Free Food Colors Sheet

Know What You're Eating, Episode 1: Colors

Red 40, Yellow 5, Red 3. Here's where the FDA stands, and what the research says about kids. Read the label, not the rumor.

• Red 40 and Yellow 5 are still approved. Both are FDA certified colors used in foods like cereals, drinks, candy, snacks and baked goods. FDA lists both as under review. [1][2]
• Voluntary phase out by the end of 2027. FDA is working with food companies to remove petroleum based dyes, including Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1, Blue 2 and Green 3, by the end of 2027 through voluntary pledges. [3]
• Red 3 is a different story. FDA revoked its use in food on Jan 15, 2025 under the Delaney Clause, and companies have until Jan 15, 2027 to take it out. The rule was based on cancer in male rats at high levels, through a rat specific hormone process FDA says does not occur in people. Red 3 was mostly in candy, cakes, cookies, frozen desserts and frosting. [4]
• Most kids are fine. Some are sensitive. FDA says most children have no adverse effects from color additives, but some evidence suggests certain children may be sensitive to them. [1] In a 2007 trial, dye mixes raised hyperactivity scores a small amount. [5]

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