Is it vegan? Additives & E-numbers E127
Is Red 3 vegan?
Quick answer: Yes, by ingredients. Red 3 (erythrosine, E127) is a synthetic dye with no animal ingredients; the US FDA has revoked its authorisation in food from 2027.
Also called: E127, erythrosine, FD&C Red No. 3, Red Dye 3
Why it’s vegan
Erythrosine is a synthetic cherry-pink dye. In the EU and UK it is approved as E127 only for limited uses, such as cocktail and candied cherries.
On 15 January 2025 the US FDA announced it was revoking the authorisation of FD&C Red No. 3 in food and ingested drugs under the Delaney Clause, giving food manufacturers until 15 January 2027 to reformulate. It contains no animal-derived ingredients, but, as with other synthetic dyes, its safety testing involved animal studies.
What to look for on the label
- E127
- erythrosine
- Red 3
- FD&C Red No. 3
Where it’s found
- Cocktail and glacé cherries
- Some sweets and decorations (US, until 2027)
Vegan alternatives
- Beetroot red (E162)
- Anthocyanins (E163)
Frequently asked questions
Is Red 3 vegan?
Yes, by ingredients. Red 3 (erythrosine, E127) is a synthetic dye with no animal ingredients; the US FDA has revoked its authorisation in food from 2027.
Sources
- Approved additives and E numbers — Food Standards Agency (UK)
- FDA to revoke authorization for the use of Red No. 3 in food and ingested drugs (15 January 2025) — US Food and Drug Administration
- Summary of color additives for use in the United States — US Food and Drug Administration
Checked on 31 October 2026. Ingredients and recipes change, and the same product can differ between countries — always check the current label. This page is general information, not allergy or medical advice.