Gummy Bear Brands That Use Red 40
Many of the most popular gummy bear brands, particularly those sold in the United States, use Red 40 and other synthetic food dyes to achieve their bright, vibrant colors. These dyes are favored by manufacturers for their cost-effectiveness and color intensity. The use of Red 40 and other artificial colors can be seen by checking the ingredient list on the packaging.
Haribo Gummy Bears
Haribo, a globally recognized brand, has different formulas for its products depending on the market. For example, Haribo Goldbears sold in the U.S. typically contain Red 40, Yellow 5, and Blue 1. The European versions of the same candies, however, often use fruit and plant concentrates for coloring instead of synthetic dyes.
Albanese Gummy Bears
Albanese is another major U.S. gummy manufacturer that often utilizes Red 40. Their 12 Flavor Gummi Bears ingredient list includes FD&C Red 40, as well as Yellow 5, Yellow 6, and Blue 1, alongside corn syrup, sugar, and gelatin. The brand does, however, offer a "Natural Gummi Line" that explicitly states it uses no artificial flavors or colors.
Other Candy Brands with Red 40
It's important to remember that Red 40 is a common additive in a wide variety of candy and snack foods, not just gummy bears. Consumers concerned about avoiding this dye should get into the habit of reading ingredient labels for everything they purchase. Other popular candies known to use Red 40 include Skittles, Swedish Fish, and certain flavors of Pop-Tarts.
Natural Alternatives to Red 40 in Gummy Bears
For those looking to avoid Red 40 and other artificial colorings, many brands now offer gummy bears made with natural alternatives. These typically derive their color from fruit and vegetable concentrates.
- Plant-based extracts: Many companies are switching to concentrates from apple, carrot, blackcurrant, and radish for red coloring.
- Spirulina extract: This ingredient is often used to achieve blue or green hues naturally.
- Other natural sources: Alternatives like turmeric for yellow, beet juice for red, and carmine (derived from cochineal insects) for red are also common.
- Vegan options: Many vegan gummy brands rely on ingredients like agar-agar or pectin for texture instead of gelatin, and use exclusively natural colorings.
Comparison Table: Gummy Bears with vs. without Red 40
| Feature | Conventional Gummy Bears (with Red 40) | Natural Gummy Bears (Red 40-Free) |
|---|---|---|
| Color Source | Synthetic, petroleum-derived dyes like Red 40, Yellow 5, and Blue 1. | Fruit and plant concentrates (e.g., carrot, beet, apple, spirulina). |
| Color Intensity | Very vibrant, consistent, and intense colors. | Subtler, potentially less uniform colors. |
| Mainstream Availability | Widely available in most grocery and convenience stores. | Increasingly common, often found in health food stores or specialty aisles. |
| Ingredients List | Explicitly lists "Red 40" or "FD&C Red No. 40". | Lists natural concentrates (e.g., "fruit and vegetable juice for color"). |
| Associated Health Concerns | Linked to hyperactivity in sensitive children, though FDA considers safe. | Generally considered a low health concern. |
| Brand Examples | Haribo Goldbears (U.S. version), Albanese 12 Flavor Gummies. | Black Forest Organic Gummy Bears, Albanese Natural Gummi Line. |
The Health Debate Surrounding Red 40
The inclusion of Red 40 and other synthetic dyes has generated significant debate among consumers and health professionals. While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Red 40 for consumption, many other countries, especially in Europe, require warning labels on products containing it. These labels warn that the dye "may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children." Some studies have suggested a link between synthetic food dyes and increased hyperactivity in sensitive children, although findings are not definitive for all individuals.
How to Check if Your Gummy Bears Contain Red 40
To determine if a specific package of gummy bears contains Red 40, the most reliable method is to read the ingredient label. The FDA requires all certified color additives to be clearly listed. Look for "Red 40" or "FD&C Red No. 40" in the ingredients list. Some manufacturers also advertise their products as being made with "no artificial colors" on the front of the package, though this is not a substitute for checking the actual ingredient list.
Conclusion
Ultimately, whether a package of gummy bears contains Red 40 depends entirely on the brand, formula, and country of origin. While many mainstream American-sold gummy bears do contain this synthetic dye, there is a large and growing market for natural, Red 40-free alternatives. For consumers concerned about the health effects of Red 40, the best practice is to always check the ingredient label before purchasing. With many brands now offering both traditional and natural options, it's easier than ever to find a gummy candy that fits individual dietary preferences. You can learn more about the FDA's stance on food additives and labeling here.
