Category: Food dyes

According to the Center for Science in the Public Interest, some of the most concerning food additives, including Red 40, are found in candies marketed to children. This has led many consumers to question the ingredients in their favorite treats, particularly: Do Now and Laters have red dye 40?

According to the ingredient list published by Frito-Lay, regular Crunchy Cheetos do not contain Red 40. The vibrant orange color comes primarily from Yellow 6, along with other colorings. This contrasts with spicier versions like Flamin' Hot Cheetos, which explicitly list Red 40 on their ingredient labels.

The vibrant orange color in many popular snack foods and candies is not a product of nature. This is because the artificial colorant Sunset Yellow FCF, also known as E110 or FD&C Yellow No. 6, is a synthetic substance derived from petroleum.

Originally launched in 1991, the popular fruit snack Gushers are known for their bursting fruit-flavored center. However, a quick look at the ingredients list reveals that many varieties of this snack do, in fact, contain Red 40 along with other artificial food colorings.

Some Mountain Dew flavors, including Code Red, contain red dye 40. This artificial food coloring, also known as Allura Red AC, is used to create vibrant colors in numerous food and beverage products.

According to a 2025 ABC News report, the FDA is revoking its authorization for Red 3 due to health concerns, but Red 40 remains widely used. For those seeking an alternative, the good news is yes, there is food coloring without red 40, offering a variety of vibrant options derived from natural sources.

According to the Center for Science in the Public Interest, some of the most vibrant, multi-colored cereals marketed to kids often contain a cocktail of synthetic food dyes. For those prioritizing clean eating, understanding **what cereal has no dye in it?** is a crucial first step toward a healthier breakfast, which is why a growing number of major brands are now offering artificial color-free alternatives.