CHICAGO – Following the recent announcement of the Food and Drug Administration banning red dye No.3, State Senator Willie Preston announced his support for the decision and highlighted his efforts to remove the dye that has been linked to dangerous health issues.

“This decision made by the FDA echoes the work I put forth under the Illinois Food Safety Act. By banning this dye, we are sending a clear message that we will put Americans’ health first – this dangerous substance must be taken out of our food,” said Preston (D-Chicago). “I commend the efforts of the advocates and medical experts who fought for the ban and will continue to advocate and educate Illinoisans about the dangers of these additives.”

The FDA’s action affects red dye No.3, which was previously approved for permanent use in food and ingested drugs more than 50 years ago. The decision comes after more than two years of advocacy towards banning the harmful dye.

“While this is a victory for the entire nation, my hope is that Illinois can follow suit with additional additive bans under the Illinois Food Safety Act I filed last year,” said Preston. “We are moving in the right direction to protect our communities and families from avoidable future health risks.”

For more information about the FDA’s decision, read here.