LANSING, Mich. — Sen. Jonathan Lindsey, R-Coldwater, issued the following statement commending the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s decision to ban red dye No. 3 in food, beverages and drugs:
“The Food and Drug Administration elected to ban red dye No. 3 from foods, dietary supplements and ingested medicines. In the decision, the FDA confirmed the long-held belief that red dye No. 3 is a carcinogen. While this is long overdue, it is rewarding that rulings are being made that will improve the health of Michiganders.
“Nearly 35 years ago, red dye No. 3 was banned from cosmetics due to its links to cancer. It was always unclear how it could be unsafe to wear, but safe to consume. For years, food companies have been using additives that are knowingly harmful to the population.
“During the last legislative session, I worked on bipartisan legislation to tackle the problem of unsafe foods. I will continue this work this session, looking for state-level policy solutions with broad support that can help lead to a safer and healthier Michigan.
“In five days, President Donald Trump will take office and his choice for secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Robert Kennedy Jr., will continue to make significant advancements. I look forward to passing legislation in Michigan that elevates the Make America Healthy Again agenda.”
###