Unwrapping the Truth: The Ingredients of Butterscotch Dum Dums
When it comes to enjoying a treat like a Dum Dum, most people focus on the flavor and nostalgia, not the list of ingredients. However, for those concerned with artificial additives, a closer look is often necessary. The butterscotch flavor, with its light golden hue, seems an unlikely candidate for containing red food dye. Yet, an examination of the official product page from Spangler Candy and other retailers reveals a different story. The ingredient list for Butterscotch Dum Dums explicitly includes "Color Added (Yellow 5, Red 40, Blue 1)".
Why is Red 40 in Butterscotch Candy?
The inclusion of Red 40 and other artificial colors in a butterscotch-flavored lollipop is a question many consumers have. The simple answer lies in the process of creating a consistent, appealing product. Food manufacturers often use a blend of multiple dyes to achieve a desired hue, even if that hue isn't overtly red. For butterscotch, a combination of yellows, reds, and blues can be used to create the specific shade of light brown or amber. These dyes are used to ensure that every batch of candy looks exactly the same, which is a key part of maintaining brand recognition and consumer expectations. The red dye, in this case, isn't meant to make the candy look red, but rather to contribute to the final golden-brown color.
Artificial vs. Natural Coloring in Candy
For many years, artificial food dyes like Red 40 were the standard in the confectionery industry due to their low cost, vibrant colors, and stability. However, a growing consumer demand for "clean-label" products has pushed some manufacturers to explore natural alternatives. These alternatives are often derived from fruit and vegetable juices, extracts, or spices. The transition is not without its challenges, as highlighted by Spangler's own CEO, Kirk Vashaw, who noted in a 2025 interview that some natural colorants, like beet juice, can alter the taste of the final product. Other natural substitutes, like carmine (derived from cochineal insects), have also met with consumer skepticism.
Common Ingredients in Butterscotch Dum Dums
- Sugar: The primary and main sweetening agent in the lollipop.
- Corn Syrup: Provides a smooth texture and prevents crystallization.
- Salt: Used to balance the sweetness and enhance the butterscotch flavor.
- Artificial Flavor: Creates the distinct butterscotch taste profile.
- Color Added (Yellow 5, Red 40, Blue 1): A mix of artificial dyes used to achieve the consistent golden-brown color.
The broader context of Red 40 in Spangler Products
The Spangler Candy Company, the maker of Dum Dums, is transparent about its use of artificial dyes like Red 40. While some of its products are dye-free or have been reformulated, the company has resisted a complete overhaul of its popular, artificially colored candies. This decision is often based on the challenges of finding natural dyes that can deliver the same vibrant color and consistent taste that consumers have come to expect. The company produces millions of Dum Dums a day, and maintaining product consistency is a top priority.
The Use of Red 40 in Confections: A Comparison
| Candy Brand | Contains Red 40? | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Butterscotch Dum Dums | Yes | Uses a mix of dyes to achieve a golden-brown hue. |
| Original Mix Dum Dums | Yes | Many flavors in the original mix contain Red 40 and other dyes. |
| Swedish Fish | Yes | Contains Red 40 for its signature color. |
| Some Haribo Gummies | No (EU), Yes (US) | European versions are often dye-free, while US versions contain Red 40 and other dyes. |
| Some Skittles Flavors | Yes | Certain red and purple flavors contain Red 40. |
| YumEarth Organics | No | Uses natural alternatives like beet juice and annatto. |
What does this mean for consumers?
For most people, the presence of a food dye like Red 40 in their butterscotch candy is of no concern. The FDA has deemed Red 40 safe for consumption, and adverse reactions are rare. However, for individuals with sensitivities or those who prefer to avoid artificial ingredients, this information is crucial. The lack of an obvious red color can be misleading, so checking the ingredient label is always the best way to be certain.
Conclusion
In summary, the answer to "Do butterscotch Dum Dums have Red 40?" is a definitive yes. Despite its muted golden appearance, the Spangler Candy Company includes a mix of artificial colorings, including Red 40, Yellow 5, and Blue 1, to achieve a consistent color across all batches. While this is standard practice for many conventional candies, it's important for consumers with specific dietary preferences or sensitivities to be aware of the ingredients in their favorite treats. The key takeaway is to always check the ingredient label, as appearances can be deceiving, especially when it comes to food colorings.
Authoritative Reference
For more information on Red 40 and other food color additives approved by the FDA, consult the official U.S. Food and Drug Administration website. https://www.fda.gov/food/food-additives-petitions/color-additives-food-fda-guidance-regulations
