50 Well-Known Foods That Contain Red Dye No. 3 | 2025

Last Updated on January 16, 2025

In a world where health-conscious choices are more important than ever, Gen Z women are leading the charge in prioritizing wellness and transparency. However, there’s a sneaky ingredient lurking in many everyday foods that you might not even realize you’re consuming: Red Dye No. 3. This synthetic dye, also known as erythrosine, has been flagged for potential health risks, including links to cancer in lab studies. Yet, it remains widely used in food products.

Here’s a closer look at why Gen Z should care about avoiding Red Dye No. 3 and a comprehensive list of 50 foods that may contain it.

Why Should You Avoid Red Dye No. 3?

1. Health Risks: Red Dye No. 3 has been banned in cosmetics since 1990 after being linked to thyroid cancer in animal studies. Yet, it’s still allowed in food and medications, raising concerns about its safety for human consumption.

2. Hormonal Balance: Gen Z women are more aware of how artificial additives can impact hormonal health. Some studies suggest synthetic dyes like Red Dye No. 3 may contribute to hormonal disruptions.

3. Clean Eating Goals: If you’re striving for a clean and natural diet, avoiding artificial ingredients is key. Red Dye No. 3 is entirely synthetic and adds nothing of nutritional value.

4. Advocacy for Transparency: Gen Z is demanding more transparency from brands, and knowing what’s in your food empowers you to make informed choices.

50 Foods That Might Contain Red Dye No. 3

Candy and Sweets:

1. PEZ Candy (assorted flavors)
2. Dubble Bubble Bubble Gum
3. Skittles (red-colored varieties)
4. Starburst (cherry flavor)
5. Jelly Beans (red varieties)
6. Twizzlers (cherry and strawberry flavors)
7. Gummy Bears (red varieties)
8. Candy Canes (red-striped)
9. Lollipops (red varieties)
10. Fruit Roll-Ups (cherry flavor)

Snacks and Treats:

11. Little Debbie Cakes (red velvet)
12. Hostess Cupcakes (red velvet)
13. Entenmann’s Party Cakes (with red sprinkles)
14. Kellogg’s Pop-Tarts (red fillings like strawberry)
15. Betty Crocker Red Velvet Cake Mix
16. Jell-O Gelatin (cherry or strawberry)
17. Red Licorice
18. Fruit by the Foot (red varieties)
19. Welch’s Fruit Snacks (red flavors)
20. Gourmet Candy Corn

Drinks and Beverages:

21. Fruit Punch (many brands)
22. Shirley Temple (with maraschino cherries)
23. Maraschino Cherries
24. Cherry-Flavored Sodas
25. Energy Drinks (cherry or berry flavors)
26. Kool-Aid (red flavors)
27. Sports Drinks (red varieties like Gatorade)
28. Juice Cocktails (like cranberry blend)
29. Slushies (red cherry flavor)
30. Red Mocktails

Frozen Foods:

31. Popsicles (cherry or strawberry)
32. Ice Cream Toppings (cherry syrup)
33. Frozen Yogurt (cherry flavor)
34. Sorbet (red berry varieties)
35. Frozen Fruit Bars (cherry)

Condiments and Baking Ingredients:

36. Cake Sprinkles (red varieties)
37. Decorative Icing (red)
38. Cherry Pie Filling
39. Glacé Cherries
40. Red Frosting

Processed Foods:

41. Instant Pudding (strawberry)
42. Flavored Oatmeal (red berry varieties)
43. Cereal Bars (strawberry or cherry flavors)
44. Breakfast Pastries (red fillings)
45. Red-Colored Chips (like spicy snacks)

Other:

46. Vitamin Gummies (red flavors)
47. Cough Drops (cherry flavor)
48. Red Mints
49. Vegetarian Bacon Strips (red-colored varieties)
50. Dole Diced Fruit Cups (with cherries)

How to Avoid Red Dye No. 3

1. Read Labels: Look for terms like “FD&C Red No. 3,” “erythrosine,” or “E127.”

2. Choose Natural Alternatives: Opt for products that use natural colorings, such as beet juice, paprika, or turmeric.

3. Support Transparent Brands: Support brands that prioritize clean ingredients and avoid artificial additives.

4. Advocate for Change: Join petitions and initiatives aimed at banning harmful additives like Red Dye No. 3.

Final Thoughts

Gen Z women are shaping the future with their demand for authenticity, transparency, and wellness. By staying informed and making conscious choices, you’re not just protecting your health, but also setting the tone for a cleaner, healthier world. Keep this list handy, and let’s say goodbye to Red Dye No. 3 for good!