Significant concerns; banned in some countries or classified as possible carcinogen
Red 3 / Erythrosine (detailed)
At a Glance
Quick Answer
Red 3 / Erythrosine (detailed) is rated "Avoid / Concerns" according to current evidence. It is restricted in the EU and approved in the US. This additive is currently approved in all four major markets (US, EU, UK, Japan).
On This Page
What is Red 3 / Erythrosine (detailed)?
Cherry-red dye. FDA revoked authorization Jan 2025 (effective 2027 for food, 2028 for medicine). EU restricts to cocktail cherries only. In maraschino cherries, candy. Thyroid tumors in male rats. One of oldest certified dyes (1907)
Regulatory Status by Country
🇺🇸 United StatesUS
ApprovedCherry-red dye. FDA revoked authorization Jan 2025 (effective 2027 for food, 2028 for medicine). EU restricts to cocktail cherries only. In maraschino cherries, candy. Thyroid tumors in male rats. One of oldest certified dyes (1907)
🇪🇺 European UnionEU
Approved (restricted, as E127)Cherry-red dye. FDA revoked authorization Jan 2025 (effective 2027 for food, 2028 for medicine). EU restricts to cocktail cherries only. In maraschino cherries, candy. Thyroid tumors in male rats. One of oldest certified dyes (1907)
🇬🇧 United KingdomUK
Same as EUFollows EU regulations
🇯🇵 Japan
Check MHLW🇨🇦 CanadaCA
ApprovedGenerally aligned with US FDA. Regulated by Health Canada.
🇦🇺 Australia/NZAU/NZ
ApprovedGenerally aligned with EU standards. Regulated by FSANZ.
🇮🇳 India
ApprovedWidely approved internationally. Regulated by FSSAI.
🇰🇷 South KoreaKR
Check MFDSVerify with South Korea's Ministry of Food and Drug Safety.
🇧🇷 Brazil
ApprovedGenerally aligned with Codex/US standards. Regulated by ANVISA.
🇨🇳 China
ApprovedPermitted under GB 2760 national standard.
Note: Canada, Australia/NZ, India, South Korea, Brazil, and China statuses are inferred from international regulatory patterns. Always verify with the relevant national authority.
Expert Analysis
Red 3 / Erythrosine (detailed) is classified as a color in the food additive regulatory framework. Significant safety concerns have been identified, and this additive is restricted or banned in multiple markets. This additive is approved across multiple major regulatory markets worldwide, suggesting broad scientific consensus on its safety profile. As with all food additives, moderation is key. Consult healthcare professionals for personalized dietary advice.
Is Red 3 / Erythrosine (detailed) safe?
Red 3 / Erythrosine (detailed) has a safety rating of "Avoid / Concerns". Significant concerns; banned in some countries or classified as possible carcinogen
Is Red 3 / Erythrosine (detailed) vegan?
Red 3 / Erythrosine (detailed) is generally considered vegan-friendly, though sourcing may vary.
Is Red 3 / Erythrosine (detailed) banned in Europe?
No, Red 3 / Erythrosine (detailed) is Approved (restricted, as E127) in the EU.
What is Red 3 / Erythrosine (detailed) made from?
Cherry-red dye. FDA revoked authorization Jan 2025 (effective 2027 for food, 2028 for medicine). EU restricts to cocktail cherries only. In maraschino cherries, candy. Thyroid tumors in male rats. One of oldest certified dyes (1907)
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