FD&C Green No.3 is a synthetic food dye used to enhance the color of foods and beverages.
FD&C Green No. 3
Found In
- Beverages
- Candy
- Canned vegetables
- Cereals
- Ice cream
- Salad dressings
Also Known As
- Fast Green FCF
- Green Dye 3
The Beverage Bottom Line
FD&C Green No. 3 is authorized for use in the U.S. and Canada. FD&C Green No. 3 is not authorized for use in Europe.
This ingredient may have authorizations in countries not included on this site.
International Assessments and Authorizations
U.S. Food And Drug Administration (FDA)
Safe for intended uses. (FDA Approved)
FDA has a Q&A on color additives for consumers, last updated in December 2023.
In 2019, FDA science board reviewed new information and did not change previous conclusions.
In 2016, FDA conducted an exposure assessment on seven color additives approved for general use in food.
In 2011, FDA Food Advisory Committee (FAC) reviewed color additives and concluded that “a link between children’s consumption of certified color additives causing behavioral effects had not been established.”
In 2010, FDA commissioned a comprehensive review of 33 human studies, concluding “Overall, the available information from all 33 trials does not support a causal relationship of either food intolerance in general or artificial food colors/preservatives in particular with ADHD or other problem behaviors in children.” (For more information on the 33 trials, please click here.)
European Food Safety Authority (EFSA)
Not permitted.
This page was last updated on 6/30/2025.