It's a synthetic red dye used for colouring petrol, solvents, oils, waxes and polishes. Its use in food is banned. It was first used in the US in 1918 but was withdrawn from food use the same year.
What health risks are associated with it?
Lab tests on rats have shown it to be carcinogenic. There have been no tests on humans but it is assumed to be toxic. However, as it is present only in tiny quantities, the health risks are likely to be very small.
What is happening to food contaminated with the dye?
The Food Safety Authority, the food industry and official agencies are co-ordinating the removal of all these foods from shops and restaurants. A full list of contaminated foods is available on the FSAI website: www.fsai.ie
What will stop this happening again?
All powdered chilli imported into the EU must now be certified free of Sudan Red 1. Random sampling is also carried out. The contaminated chilli powder is believed to have been imported to the UK before new EU laws in 2003 banning Sudan Red 1.
Where can I get more information?
Food Safety Authority of Ireland: www.fsai.ie/FSAI: 1890 33 66 77
Food Standards Authority in Britain: www.food.gov.uk/
European Food Safety Authority: www.efsa.eu.int/