The FDA is considering banning red 3, a petroleum-based food dye commonly used in American products like candies, snacks, and cereals, due to concerns about its potential health risks, especially for children.

While the FDA has deemed red 3 safe in small amounts, studies have shown it to be carcinogenic in animals, and it has been banned in cosmetics since 1990.

Public health groups have also linked it to behavioral issues in children.

California banned red 3 last year, and pressure is mounting for the FDA to follow suit, The Guardian has reported.

Lawmakers and health advocates argue that there is no need for this dye in food, as it serves only aesthetic purposes.

Written by B.C. Begley