The FDA cited findings from animal studies indicating that high levels of Red 3 exposure caused cancer in male lab rats

Thousands of foods contain Red Dye No. 3, the substance banned by U.S. regulators on Wednesday due to potential cancer links. Here’s what foods or products are likely to be impacted by the ban.

More than three decades ago, the FDA declined to authorize use of Red 3 in cosmetics because a study showed it caused cancer when eaten by rats.

With the recent news that the Food and Drug Administration is banning Red No. 3, the artificial dye that is considered a potential carcinogen, some experts are saying it could be the start of a much larger trend to remove any number of additives from some of our favorite foods and drinks.

A colorful ingredient you may find in your pantry or medicine cabinet is now banned by the Food and Drug Administration.

The FDA has officially banned Red 3, a common food coloring dye. The ban came after research found that the dye could cause cancer in rats. This has left many companies and stores wondering what manufacturers plan to do about the ban and what alternatives they’ll use.