Why banning Red No. 3 in America took decades

Synthetic food dyes add a burst of color to many beloved American foods, such as candy, cereal, and even bacon. But some dyes — like Red No. 3 — have links to cancer, behavioral disorders, and other health issues.

Now, after more than 30 years, the FDA is banning Red No. 3 in cereals and other food products. The move comes as California is poised to ban synthetic dyes in schools, and as Robert F. Kennedy Jr. pushes for a nationwide ban on artificial dyes.