Re-evaluate the safety of Red Dye 3 in India


Re-evaluate the safety of Red Dye 3 in India
The Issue
Red Dye 3 (Erythrosine / E127 / INS 127) is a synthetic food color that has been associated with:
- Hyperactivity and attention-related challenges in children
- Thyroid hormone disruption
- Cancerous tumors in animal studies
This colorant continues to be used in various popular food items in India, including biscuits, candies, milkshakes, jams, saunf, and dairy-based treats, many of which are targeted at children.
Current International Approach:
- United States: U.S. FDA announced its decision to phase out Red Dye 3 from all food, dietary supplements, and oral medications; banned in cosmetics and topical drugs since 1990.
- European Union: Strictly limited to a few applications with mandatory warning labels.
- Australia & New Zealand: Permitted in select products under stringent conditions.
- India: Continues to allow its use in packaged foods and beverages, in accordance with existing safety standards.
Our Shared Responsibility for Public Health
We commend the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) for its science-driven approach to protecting consumer health. As new global evidence emerges, India has an opportunity to lead in strengthening food safety.
We respectfully urge FSSAI to:
- Reassess the safety of Red Dye 3 in light of recent global findings.
- Mandate clear front-of-pack labeling for synthetic dyes to support informed choices.
- Phase out Red Dye 3 from food, beverages, and supplements in line with international standards.
Supported by:
TruthIn - India’s first food transparency app
FoodPharmer - Leading food awareness advocate
The Logical Indian - Championing social impact initiatives
We invite all citizens to join this movement for a healthier future. Together, let’s continue advancing India’s commitment to food safety and public well-being.
#MakeIndiaHealthyAgain #LabelPadhegaIndia
21,400
The Issue
Red Dye 3 (Erythrosine / E127 / INS 127) is a synthetic food color that has been associated with:
- Hyperactivity and attention-related challenges in children
- Thyroid hormone disruption
- Cancerous tumors in animal studies
This colorant continues to be used in various popular food items in India, including biscuits, candies, milkshakes, jams, saunf, and dairy-based treats, many of which are targeted at children.
Current International Approach:
- United States: U.S. FDA announced its decision to phase out Red Dye 3 from all food, dietary supplements, and oral medications; banned in cosmetics and topical drugs since 1990.
- European Union: Strictly limited to a few applications with mandatory warning labels.
- Australia & New Zealand: Permitted in select products under stringent conditions.
- India: Continues to allow its use in packaged foods and beverages, in accordance with existing safety standards.
Our Shared Responsibility for Public Health
We commend the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) for its science-driven approach to protecting consumer health. As new global evidence emerges, India has an opportunity to lead in strengthening food safety.
We respectfully urge FSSAI to:
- Reassess the safety of Red Dye 3 in light of recent global findings.
- Mandate clear front-of-pack labeling for synthetic dyes to support informed choices.
- Phase out Red Dye 3 from food, beverages, and supplements in line with international standards.
Supported by:
TruthIn - India’s first food transparency app
FoodPharmer - Leading food awareness advocate
The Logical Indian - Championing social impact initiatives
We invite all citizens to join this movement for a healthier future. Together, let’s continue advancing India’s commitment to food safety and public well-being.
#MakeIndiaHealthyAgain #LabelPadhegaIndia
21,400
Petition created on 12 May 2025