The Core Truth: Classic Hershey's Bars
For those who enjoy the classic flavor of Hershey's, the good news is that the iconic milk chocolate bar is free of artificial food dyes. The ingredient list for a standard Hershey's Milk Chocolate Bar typically includes milk chocolate made from sugar, milk, chocolate, cocoa butter, lactose, milk fat, soy lecithin, PGPR (an emulsifier), and vanillin. No artificial coloring agents, including Red 40, are found here. The same applies to Hershey's Special Dark chocolate bars, which use a similar list of core chocolate ingredients to achieve their distinct, mildly sweet flavor profile without artificial additives. This focus on classic, uncomplicated ingredients means that the pure brown color of the chocolate comes naturally from the cocoa solids and butter, not from petroleum-derived dyes.
Diving into the Colorful World of Hershey's
While the original chocolate bars are clear of Red 40, the answer changes when you move into the more colorful segments of the Hershey's product line. Consumers must read the labels on these items carefully. For example, EWG's analysis of colorful candy-coated Hershey's products, such as Milk Chocolate Candy Coated Eggs, explicitly lists Red 40 Lake among the ingredients. Other non-standard Hershey's offerings, particularly those with brightly colored coatings or fruit-flavored components, are much more likely to contain artificial colorants. These added dyes are used for visual appeal, not flavor, and are a key distinction for individuals following a specific nutrition diet plan or with sensitivities.
Why the Concern Over Red 40?
Red 40, also known as Allura Red AC or E129 in Europe, is a synthetic food dye derived from petroleum. For a long time, the safety of this and other artificial food dyes has been a subject of debate among nutritionists and consumers. Some studies, particularly those focusing on children, have linked Red 40 to increased hyperactivity and other neurobehavioral effects in sensitive individuals. The European Union (EU), while not banning Red 40, mandates a warning label on products containing it that states: “may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children”. In the U.S., no such warning is required, though the FDA has acknowledged that some children may be sensitive to food dyes. Beyond behavioral concerns, some individuals report allergic reactions to Red 40, with symptoms ranging from hives and headaches to more severe issues.
Reading Labels: Your Best Defense
For anyone looking to avoid artificial colors, reading the ingredient label is non-negotiable. Artificial dyes are often listed toward the end of the ingredients list. Look for names like “Red 40,” “Allura Red,” or the European code “E129”. It's important to remember that these dyes can be used to deepen the color of products that aren't even red, such as some chocolate puddings or baked goods. Many manufacturers are responding to consumer demand by offering products with natural food colorings from fruits, vegetables, and other plant sources, which can serve as a healthier alternative.
Comparison: Hershey's Classic vs. Colorful Products
| Product Type | Example | Contains Red 40? | Typical Use | Color Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Bar | Hershey's Milk Chocolate Bar | No | Straight chocolate enjoyment | Natural cocoa solids |
| Classic Bar | Hershey's Special Dark Bar | No | Baking, dark chocolate snacking | Natural cocoa solids, alkali-processed |
| Colorful/Specialty Candy | Hershey's Candy Coated Eggs | Yes (as Red 40 Lake) | Holiday candy, colorful treats | Synthetic artificial dyes |
| Colorful/Specialty Candy | Some flavored chips or mixes | Yes (as Red 40 Lake) | Specialized dessert ingredients | Synthetic artificial dyes |
Foods Often Containing Red 40
To follow a truly dye-free nutrition diet, it's helpful to know which foods most commonly contain Red 40. This isn't just a concern for candy, but a wide range of processed items:
- Breakfast cereals: Many brightly colored cereals, especially those marketed to children.
- Beverages: Sports drinks, sodas, fruit punches, and some powdered drink mixes.
- Desserts: Puddings, gelatins, ice cream, and colored frostings.
- Candy: A vast array of candy products, from gummies to hard candy and licorice.
- Snacks: Fruit snacks, flavored chips, and toaster pastries.
Conclusion: Informed Choices for a Healthy Nutrition Diet
The final word on does Hershey's chocolate contain Red 40? is that it depends on the specific product. While the classic milk and dark chocolate bars are free from this artificial dye, consumers must be vigilant with colorful, candy-coated, or flavored items within the Hershey's brand. By checking ingredient lists and understanding which products are most likely to contain synthetic dyes, individuals can make more informed decisions to support their nutrition and health goals. This extends beyond Hershey's to a wide array of processed foods, making label-reading a crucial habit for anyone concerned about artificial additives in their diet. For those looking for natural alternatives, a variety of fruits, vegetables, and other plant-based extracts can be used for coloring in home-cooked and baked goods, offering a vibrant palette without the synthetic concerns.
Where to find more info on food additives
For more information on food additives and to research specific products, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) website is a valuable resource. Their Food Scores database provides detailed ingredient information and concern ratings for thousands of products, including many Hershey's items.
Natural alternatives to artificial food dyes
- Beet juice or beet powder: Provides a rich, vibrant red or pink hue.
- Blueberry juice: Delivers a blue or purple color.
- Spinach powder: Creates a natural green color.
- Turmeric: Provides a natural yellow color.
- Cocoa powder: Deepens the brown color of chocolate mixes.
These natural alternatives allow for colorful food preparation without the need for synthetic additives, aligning with a cleaner eating approach and a focus on whole food ingredients.
