A new proposed legislation in the California State Assembly could potentially put a ban on the use of red dye in food products.
According to a news release from Assemblymember Jesse Gabriel, AB 418 is seeking to prohibit the manufacture, sale, or distribution of food products that contains red dye No. 3, titanium dioxide, potassium bromate, brominated vegetable oil, or propylparaben.
If you’re unaware, Titanium dioxide is a powder utilized as a white coloring agent to provide a smooth texture in processed foods and candies. Potassium bromate is added to baked goods to assist in dough strengthening and increases its volume. Brominated vegetable oil is included in certain beverages to prevent citrus flavoring from rising to the surface. Additionally, propylparabens is used for the preservation of food as an antimicrobial agent.
The European Union have already started banning certain ingredients “due to scientific studies that have demonstrated significant public health harms. Including increased risk of cancer, behavioral issues in children, harm to the reproductive system, and damage to the immune system.”
The National Confectioners Association does not agree with the bill. In fact, the organization says all of the product on the list have already been approved by the FDA.
“Chocolate and candy are safe to enjoy, as they have been for centuries. We strongly oppose AB 418 because there is no evidence to support banning the ingredients listed in the bill. The ingredients that would be banned under this proposal have all been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Food safety is the number one priority for U.S. confectionery companies, and we do not use any ingredients in our products that do not comply with the FDA’s strictest safety standards.”
Nevertheless, if the bill is passed, it will go into effect in 2025.
