Senator Kristen Thompson applauds Red Dye 3 ban, vows continued action on food safety

OKLAHOMA CITY — Senator Kristen Thompson, R-Edmond, today celebrated a new, nationwide ban on Red Dye 3 in food products. This move, she said, is a critical step toward safeguarding public health, especially the well-being of children. Senator Thompson credits the Trump Administration’s emphasis on addressing the dangers of potentially harmful additives as a driving force behind this important regulatory change.

“This ban on Red Dye 3 is an enormous victory for the health of our children and families in Oklahoma and across the nation,” said Senator Thompson. “I want to thank President Trump for asserting pressure on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to take this decisive action, which follows his administration’s strong focus on the risks posed by certain food additives. It’s a testament to what can happen when our government stands up to the special interests to protect consumers — particularly our youngest and most vulnerable citizens.”

Red Dye 3 has long been controversial due to scientific evidence pointing to health concerns, including possible links to cancer and negative behavioral impacts in children. While this new ban is an essential milestone, Senator Thompson stressed that there’s more work to be done and emphasized that she plans to prioritize ridding food of dangerous chemicals and additives during the upcoming legislative session.

“We should celebrate this step, but our efforts must continue,” added Senator Thompson. “There are still a number of additives and chemicals in our food supply that warrant closer scrutiny. My goal is to ensure that parents can trust the safety of the products they buy for their families. This ban is a start, and I look forward to working with the Trump Administration, new FDA leaders, our federal partners and state officials to address other potentially dangerous substances.”

Senator Thompson recently introduced Senate Bill 4, which takes a robust approach to protecting Oklahomans from harmful chemicals in food. This legislation proposes stricter standards on 11 harmful additives, dyes, chemicals and oils in food products, ensuring consumers have the information they need to make informed choices for themselves and their families.

“This federal action highlights what we in Oklahoma have already recognized — strong policies and oversight are vital to promoting the well-being of our people,” Thompson said. “I stand ready to continue the fight for safer food and a healthier future for everyone.”

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For more information, contact: Sen. Kristen Thompson at 405-521-5592 or Kristen.Thompson@oksenate.gov.