Red 33: Is It Bad for You?**
Red 33, often referred to as "Acid Red 33" or "D&C Red No. 33," is a widely used synthetic red dye that gives color to a variety of consumer products, including lipstick, rouge, and eyeshadow. While red 33 is widely recognized as a safe and effective colorant, recent concerns have raised questions about its safety.
What is Red 33?
Red 33 is a type of synthetic organic colorant, which is a dye that is used to add color to a wide range of products. It is derived from petrochemicals and is designed to dissolve in water or be used as a lake, which is a more stable, water-insoluble form of the compound.
Why is Red 33 used?
Red 33 is primarily used as a colorant in the formulation of personal care products such as lipstick, rouge, and eyeshadow. It provides a bright, bold red color that is often preferred by consumers for its dramatic and eye-catching appearance.
Scientific Information
Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Review
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has reviewed the scientific data and determined that red 33 is safe for use in cosmetic products, with the exception of products intended for use in the area of the eye. In lipsticks, red 33 may be used up to a maximum concentration of 3%. Additionally, it may be safely used in mouthwashes, breath fresheners, dentifrices, and externally applied cosmetics and personal care products when it complies with FDA specifications.
Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR)
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) is an independent program that assesses the safety of cosmetic ingredients. In the case of red 33, the CIR expert panel concluded that the dye is safe for use as a colorant in cosmetics and personal care products.
Regulatory Standards
All color additives used in foods, drugs, and cosmetics in the United States must be approved by the FDA and listed in the Code of Federal Regulations. Color additives are classified as "certifiable" if they meet strict chemical and identity specifications set by the FDA.
European Union (EU) Cosmetic Regulation
In the European Union, red 33 and its related compounds are listed as CI 17200 and may be used in all cosmetics and personal care products, with the exception of those products that are intended for use in the area of the eye. In those cases, red 33 must be called by its specific INCI name (D&C Red No. 33) and is subject to testing for stability and solubility.
Safety Controversies
Association with Hyperactivity in Children
There have been claims that artificial food dyes, including red 33, may cause hyperactivity in children. A study published in 1973 suggested that food colorings and preservatives in food may cause attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, subsequent studies have been mixed, with some showing a small increase in hyperactivity in children given artificial food dyes. TheFDA and the EFSA both concluded that there is insufficient evidence to support that artificial food dyes cause hyperactivity in children.
Cancer Risk
Artificial food dyes are classified as "possible human carcinogens" by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) based on animal studies. However, there is no direct evidence linking artificial food dyes to cancer in humans. The EFSA and theFDA both assure consumers that the dyes are safe within the specified usage rates.
Hypersensitivity Reactions
一些人可能对人工食品染料过敏，如黄5（又名焦糖红）会导致荨麻疹和哮喘症状。对阿司匹林敏感的人对黄5也更有可能过敏。
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Red 33, when used as directed, is generally considered safe for most people. However, like all colorants, it is important to read product labels carefully and avoid ingesting artificial food dyes if you have a known allergy or sensitivity. The risk of allergic reaction or dietary carcinogen exposure is low, but it does exist. The most important takeaway is to limit consumption of processed foods that contain red 33 and other artificial colorants and to focus on whole, unprocessed foods for a healthier diet.
