Halloween Treats: Fun or Fright?

Halloween is all about candy, costumes, and fun – but did you know that some of your favorite treats could be spookier than you think? A new California law, set to take effect in 2027, will ban the use of harmful ingredients like Red No. 3, brominated vegetable oil, potassium bromate, and propylparaben in food. These additives are linked to serious health risks, including cancer. The European Union banned most of these long ago, and supporters of the law hope companies will follow suit with safer recipes.

So what’s the deal with these ingredients?

• Red No. 3, found in popular Halloween candies like Sixlets, PEZ, some candy corn and Ring Pops, was banned in cosmetics in 1990 after being linked to cancer in lab animals.
• Brominated vegetable oil, often used in citrus-flavored drinks, can harm the nervous system. In animal studies, high levels of brominated vegetable oil had a negative effect on the thyroid. In August, the FDA revoked its regulation in the U.S. Companies have one year to change their formulas to eliminate this ingredient.
• Potassium bromate, added to dough and baked goods to improve texture and help them rise higher, is a known carcinogen, which means it can cause cancer. It often is added to beverages to keep citrus flavoring from floating to the top. It has also been shown to cause damage to the nervous system and the respiratory system in animal studies.
• Propylparaben, in the paraben family, has been used as a preservative in many packaged pastries. It can mimic estrogen and may act as a hormone disruptor in humans.

"While Halloween is a time for fun treats, it's important to be mindful of what’s in your candy,” says Holy Name registered dietitian Tracee Brenner. “Ingredients like Red No. 3 and brominated vegetable oil have been linked to health risks, but by checking labels and choosing healthier options, you can enjoy the season without compromising your well-being."

The good news? You can still enjoy Halloween while staying healthy. Here are some healthier options you may want to consider for fruit taffy, gummy candy, chocolate, gum-filled lollipops and sour candies. Read labels, ask your dietitian or healthcare provider about unfamiliar ingredients, and incorporate more whole foods like fruits, veggies, and whole grains into your diet.

Happy (and healthy) Halloween!