FDA bans Red 3 dye from food and drugs. A scientist explains the artificial color’s health risks and long history

Red 3—also called FD&C Red No. 3, erythrosine or E127—has been widely used in food, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals since its FDA approval in 1969. You’ve likely encountered Red 3 before. It’s a common additive to many candies, beverages, baked goods, cereals, maraschino cherries and gelatin desserts, as well as certain medications, syrups and cosmetics.

Smoking cannabis in the home can increase odds of detectable levels in children

Researchers at University of California San Diego analyzed cannabis smoking practices in San Diego County to assess whether in-home smoking was associated with cannabis detection in children. The study, published on Jan. 23, 2025 in the journal JAMA Network Open, found that in-home cannabis smoking increased the odds of child exposure to cannabis smoke.

Immunotherapy that combines hormone and topical treatment offers new hope for melanoma and breast cancer

A research team at the Medical University of Vienna led by Maria Sibilia has investigated a new combination therapy against cancer. This therapy employs systemic administration of the tissue hormone interferon-I combined with local application of Imiquimod. This combination showed promising results in topically accessible tumors like melanoma and breast cancer models.