Delicious Candy Without Harmful Red Dye #3

Finding Candy Without Red Dye

With increasing concerns about potential health risks associated with artificial dyes, many people are looking to avoid red dye, specifically Red Dye #3 or Red Dye 40, in the candy they eat. Luckily, there are many delicious candy options that are free of controversial red dyes.

Why Avoid Red Dye?

Red Dye #3, also known as erythrosine, is a petroleum-derived artificial dye that is commonly used to color candy and other foods like maraschino cherries. While it adds vibrant color, there are concerns about its safety.

Studies have found that high doses of Red Dye #3 are linked to thyroid tumors in rats. As a result, there are strict limits on how much can be used. While the amounts in candy are small, some consumer groups recommend avoiding it out of an abundance of caution.

Many companies are responding to worries by phasing out artificial dyes like Red Dye #3 and switching to safer natural color alternatives instead.

Popular Candy Without Red Dye

Luckily, you don't have to give up candy if you want to avoid red dye. Many popular brands offer delicious treats without this additive:

• Skittles - Original Skittles are dye-free. Other flavors use natural colors.
• M&Ms - The milk chocolate variety contains no dye. Peanut and crispy M&Ms use natural colors.
• Reese's Peanut Butter Cups - No dyes here!
• Hershey's chocolate bars - Opt for milk chocolate or dark chocolate varieties.
• Jelly Belly jelly beans - Their classic beans have no dye. Some flavors use natural colors.
• Smarties - This retro candy has no dyes.
• Botan Rice Candy - Chewy rice candy that uses plant-based colors.
• Surf Sweets gummy bears - Made with fruit juices and natural colors.
• Annie's Cheddar Bunnies - The organic cheese crackers contain no artificial ingredients.

Finding Other Red-Dye Free Treats

Beyond big name candy brands, there are many smaller companies producing high-quality confections without artificial dyes:

• YumEarth - Offers organic lollipops, gummies, and other treats colored with natural sources.
• See's Candies - Most of their chocolates contain no dye.
• Vermont Candy Company - Uses natural colors and flavors.
• Taro's Natural Root Beer Barrels - Sweetened with honey and colored with vegetable juice.
• Koppers Chocolate - Handmade chocolate with no dye.
• Lovely Candy Company - Hard candies and lollipops made with natural ingredients.

You can also find red-dye free options from fair trade and organic brands at health food stores. Reading the ingredient lists can help identify treats without artificial additives.

Other Ways to Avoid Red Dye

Candy is not the only place you'll find Red Dye #3 - it's also commonly used in baked goods, cereals, ice cream, popsicles, fruit juices and more. Here are some other tips for avoiding it:

• Choose fresh produce instead of colored juices and canned fruit.
• Look for organic packaged foods without artificial ingredients.
• Make desserts and treats from scratch so you control the ingredients.
• Use natural alternatives like beet juice or paprika for coloring foods.

With a little label reading and some brand swapping, you can find plenty of delicious red-dye free foods including candy, desserts, snacks, and more. Voting with your dollars helps support companies that use safer natural ingredients too.

The Bottom Line

Red Dye #3 is still commonly found in many brands of candy and other processed foods. But with increasing consumer concern about its potential health risks, it's easy to find plenty of delicious alternatives without synthetic red dye by checking labels and choosing natural brands.

Looking for candy and other treats without controversial ingredients is a healthy and thoughtful choice. Thankfully many companies are moving away from artificial dyes and using safer, plant-based coloring alternatives that allow consumers to indulge their sweet tooth without worry.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.