In a move that underscores California's commitment to public health, Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a groundbreaking law that bans the use of red dye No. 3 and several other potentially harmful food additives. This decision places California at the forefront of consumer safety, making it the first state in the U.S. to prohibit these ingredients, which are commonly found in candies, beverages, and other consumer goods.
The law, known as the California Food Safety Act or Assembly Bill 418, was introduced earlier this year by Assemblymembers Jesse Gabriel and Buffy Wicks. It specifically targets red dye No. 3, potassium bromate, brominated vegetable oil, and propylparaben. These ingredients have been under scrutiny for their potential health risks. For instance, potassium bromate is often added to baked goods to enhance dough strength, while brominated vegetable oil is used in some drinks to prevent flavor separation. Propylparabens, on the other hand, serve as antimicrobial preservatives in food.
Red dye No. 3, in particular, is a prevalent ingredient, used in nearly 3,000 products ranging from popular candies like Skittles and Trolli gummies to protein shakes and boxed cake mixes. The Environmental Working Group's Eat Well Guide has highlighted its widespread use.
Governor Newsom's decision to sign the bill into law brings the U.S. a step closer to the stringent food safety standards observed in the European Union. In the EU, these chemicals have been banned due to studies linking them to various health concerns, including an increased risk of cancer, behavioral issues in children, and potential harm to the reproductive and immune systems.
In a letter to the California State Assembly, Governor Newsom emphasized the importance of the law, stating that it represents a positive move forward for these food additives. He urged the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to review and establish updated safety levels for these additives. CNN has reportedly reached out to the FDA for comments on this development.
However, the law won't take immediate effect. Its implementation is set for 2027, providing ample time for brands to adjust their recipes and eliminate these chemicals. Governor Newsom reassured Californians that they would continue to have access to their favorite food products, but with increased confidence in their safety.
The National Confectioners Association, a Washington, DC-based trade organization, expressed concerns over the new law. They believe that Governor Newsom's decision might undermine consumer confidence and create confusion around food safety, especially since it acts independently of the FDA. The association has called on the FDA to provide clarity on the matter.
One of the significant implications of this law is its potential to influence food standards across the U.S., given California's economic stature. Consumer Reports suggests that due to the size of California's economy, the law might impact food products nationwide. It's improbable that manufacturers will produce two versions of their products - one for California and another for the rest of the country.
For those keen on avoiding red dye No. 3 in their foods, they can check the ingredients list for "FD&C Red #3." For medications, the dye can be found in the "inactive ingredients" section.
