Red dye scare in Europe

One of the largest food recalls in the history of Europe has been triggered by the discovery of a cancer-causing food additive in more than 400 products.

The additive, "red dye Sudan 1," is a colorant added to solvents such as oils and waxes. The European Union banned its use in foods in 2003. Apparently, however, U.K. food producer Premier Foods used chili powder that contained the dye to make Worcester sauce, which was then used as a flavor enhancer for a large number of processed or convenience foods.

The U.K. Food Standards Agency has required retailers to pull immediately all items believed to be contaminated with the dye, including such products as chicken and vegetable casseroles. A complete timeline of the recall and additional information on the dye can be found here.

Although the colorant was banned, chili powder tainted with Sudan 1 eluded inspection as it was purchased before more complete testing went into effect, according to reports.