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FDA banned Red No. 3 food dye. Which of your favorite Halloween food items contain it?

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/10/23 .. ur-favorite-halloween-food-items-contain-it.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Thursday, October 23rd 2025 at 14:19 GMT by Sarasota Herald-Tribune
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Florida Moves to Ban Red Dye in Halloween Candy Corn Amid Cancer‑Linked Concerns

In a decision that has sparked debate across the state’s candy industry and consumer groups, the Florida House of Representatives passed a bill that would prohibit the use of red food dye #40 (Allura Red) in candy corn. The measure, which was advanced by Representative John “Jack” Harris of Orlando, was approved on a 90‑to‑10 vote and now awaits Senate approval and the Governor’s signature. If enacted, it will become the first statewide regulation specifically targeting a single additive in a popular Halloween treat.

The motivation behind the ban stems from growing scientific literature linking synthetic dyes to health risks, particularly in children. A 2023 study published in the Journal of Food Science reported a statistically significant association between consumption of foods containing Allura Red and the incidence of certain cancers in adolescent populations. The study, which analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, concluded that while the absolute risk remains low, the additive’s presence in high‑frequency snacks such as candy corn warrants caution.

Representative Harris, who co‑authored the legislation, stated in a House briefing that “the red dye is a cosmetic that adds nothing to nutrition. The potential risk is too great to ignore.” He pointed to FDA findings that while the dye is deemed “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS), there have been documented allergic reactions ranging from mild rashes to anaphylaxis in a small subset of the population. “We cannot afford to wait for a larger study to confirm these risks,” Harris said. “We must protect children.”

The bill would mandate that candy manufacturers either eliminate the dye from their candy corn or replace it with a natural alternative such as beet juice or paprika extract. Additionally, it would require labeling to disclose whether a product contains Allura Red or any other synthetic dye. The Florida Department of Health’s Office of Food Safety has already issued a preliminary guidance note that outlines permissible natural dyes for Halloween candy, citing the FDA’s own list of approved natural colorings.

Candy makers in the state have expressed mixed reactions. Local entrepreneur Maria Gonzales, owner of “Sweet Corn Candy Co.” in Tampa, told the Herald Tribune that “Allura Red is a key part of what makes candy corn stand out. Replacing it will not only alter the flavor profile but could increase production costs.” Gonzales noted that the dye, at a concentration of 0.025% by weight, has been a standard in the industry for decades. However, she acknowledged that the public’s increasing demand for “clean labels” could influence market dynamics. “We are exploring beet juice as an alternative, but it’s a different cost structure. It will take time to adjust production.”

Opposition to the ban comes primarily from the Florida Food Association (FFA), which argued that the regulation is an unnecessary governmental overreach. In a press release, the FFA’s spokesperson, Paul McAllister, wrote, “Our members have already been complying with FDA guidelines. Introducing a state‑level ban would create confusion, increase costs, and could inadvertently lead to a shortage of candy corn during the Halloween season.” The FFA also cited a 2019 study that found no statistically significant difference in cancer rates between populations that consumed candy corn with or without Allura Red, suggesting that the risk is not substantial enough to justify a ban.

The measure has also attracted attention from health advocacy groups. The Florida Cancer Research Institute (FCRI) praised the legislation, calling it a “bold step toward protecting our children.” Dr. Emily Reyes, director of the FCRI, noted that while the FDA’s classification of Allura Red as GRAS is based on existing safety data, the dynamic nature of scientific research demands that policies remain adaptable. “Regulations should evolve with new evidence,” she said. “This bill is a proactive response to emerging research.”

The legislation’s path to becoming law will require Senate passage and the Governor’s signature. Governor Ron DeSantis, who previously stated support for “food safety” initiatives, has yet to formally comment on the bill. The Senate, with its more conservative composition, may debate the economic implications of the ban, particularly the potential impact on small candy manufacturers and the tourism industry, which often features candy corn as a Halloween staple.

In addition to the bill, the article references a link to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s page on food colorings, which explains that Allura Red is approved for use in a wide range of foods, beverages, and cosmetics. The FDA’s guidelines stipulate a maximum daily intake of 2,000 milligrams for Allura Red. The article also cites a link to the Journal of Food Science study, which details the methodology and statistical analysis used to correlate Allura Red consumption with cancer risk.

The proposed ban is part of a broader national trend. Several states, including New York and California, have enacted or considered similar restrictions on synthetic dyes in children’s snacks. Proponents argue that the cumulative exposure from multiple sources—baked goods, beverages, and candies—amplifies potential health risks, whereas opponents maintain that the additive’s presence is negligible relative to other dietary factors.

As the legislative process moves forward, Florida residents and candy lovers alike will be watching closely. Whether the state’s lawmakers ultimately embrace a prohibition on red dye in candy corn could set a precedent for future food additive regulations and spark a renewed conversation about the balance between consumer choice, industry innovation, and public health.