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The United States has announced a ban on the use of the controversial red food colouring E127 (erythrosine) in food and medicine. The decision comes after decades of research that confirmed its carcinogenicity, CBS News reports.
What is E127?
E127, also known as Red 3, is a synthetic petroleum-based colourant. In North America, it was widely used to give products a bright pink or red colour. It could be found in candy, canned fruit, beverages, and even medicines.
The dye was introduced in the early twentieth century due to its stability, bright colour and low cost compared to natural dyes. However, its safety remained in question.
FDA decision
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced that it no longer allows the use of E127 in food and oral medicines. Previously, the colourant was banned from cosmetics and skin care products due to the risk of allergies and confirmed carcinogenicity.
Consumer response and global restrictions
Back in 2022, American consumers officially asked the FDA to ban E127. Other countries around the world, especially the European Union, have long imposed strict restrictions on its use.
Potential health risks
Studies have shown that the dye can cause:
- hyperactivity in children;
- light sensitivity;
- thyroid dysfunction;
- possible mutagenic and carcinogenic effects.
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has set the maximum daily dose for E127 at 0-0.1 mg per kilogram of body weight.
How will this affect the food industry?
According to the environmental association EWG, about 3,000 products sold in the US contain E127. Manufacturers will have to adapt their recipes, replacing the dye with safer alternatives.
