In 1977 the red dye scare happened. Somehow red dye was linked to causing cancer. The soviets stared the scare and we listened. Red dye was banned in not only food but in makeup and several other things. the ban lasted for several years until we were able to use it again. This event was Important to the 70s because it shows that we care about our health and will take precautions to stay safe even if it means no red m&ms!