Tag: Dyes

Globally, thousands of tons of coloring agents are used annually to enhance the aesthetic appeal and functionality of products across various industries. What are coloring agents? They are substances added to impart color to foods, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and more, playing a vital role in consumer perception and product identification.

In early 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) finalized a ban on the food color additive FD&C Red No. 3 due to its link to cancer in animal studies. This regulatory action has caused significant public confusion, with many people mistakenly conflating it with the different cosmetic dye, D&C **Red 33**. The crucial question, 'is red 33 bad for you?', is best answered by understanding the distinct safety profiles and uses of these two different dyes.