Yes, Some Starburst Varieties Contain Red 40
For consumers concerned about artificial food dyes, the presence of Red 40 in some Starburst products is an important fact to note. The manufacturer, Mars, Incorporated, uses this petroleum-derived synthetic color additive to achieve the vibrant red color in certain candies. While the dye is approved for use by the FDA, it is a point of contention for many health-conscious individuals and parents.
To know for sure if a specific Starburst product contains Red 40, always check the ingredient list on the packaging. For example, both the Starburst Original Fruit Chews and the FaveReds varieties list Red 40 as an ingredient. However, some regional or specialized versions of the candy, particularly those formulated for different international markets, may use alternative coloring agents due to varying regulations.
Which Starburst Flavors Contain Red 40?
When looking at the standard Starburst lineup in the United States, several flavors use Red 40 to create their signature hue. This is most prominent in the red and pink candies, but artificial colorings are often used in combination with others to achieve the final shade across different flavors.
- Original Fruit Chews: The red (cherry) and pink (strawberry) candies in the classic pack contain Red 40.
- FaveReds Fruit Chews: This variety is specifically known for its collection of red and pink flavors, including strawberry, fruit punch, watermelon, and cherry. All of these typically contain Red 40.
- Other Varieties: It is essential to check the label for any other Starburst variations, including gelatins, fruit snacks, and drink mixes, as these products may also contain the dye.
The Controversy Surrounding Red 40
Red 40, or Allura Red AC, is one of the most widely used artificial food colorings in the food industry. Despite its widespread use, it has been the subject of ongoing debate for decades. The main concerns center around potential links to health issues, particularly in children.
Potential Health Concerns and Regulation
While regulatory bodies like the FDA have historically deemed Red 40 safe, they also acknowledge that some individuals, especially children with sensitivities, may experience adverse effects. A 2007 study in the UK, often referred to as the Southampton Study, found associations between artificial dyes and hyperactivity in children. This led to different regulatory responses in Europe, where some products require warning labels.
In recent years, the regulatory landscape has shifted in the US as well. In April 2025, the U.S. FDA announced a plan to phase out Red 40 and other synthetic dyes from the food supply by the end of 2026, citing growing evidence and concern for child health. Additionally, states like California and Pennsylvania have taken steps to ban certain food dyes, including Red 40, from school meal programs. Animal studies have also shown potential links to gut inflammation, though more human research is needed.
List of Natural Alternatives to Red 40
Manufacturers have natural alternatives they can use to achieve red coloring without using petroleum-derived dyes. Consumers can also use these for coloring food at home.
- Beetroot powder or juice
- Paprika oleoresin
- Cranberry juice concentrate
- Carmine (derived from insects, may not be vegan)
- Pomegranate juice
- Annatto extract
Starburst in Different Regions
Due to varying international regulations, the ingredients in Starburst products can differ significantly. This is a crucial point for anyone traveling or purchasing goods from overseas, as the presence of Red 40 is not universal.
| Product Line | US Ingredients (Contains Red 40) | UK Ingredients (No Red 40) |
|---|---|---|
| Original Fruit Chews | Colors (Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1) | Colors (Anthocyanins, Beetroot Red) |
| FaveReds Fruit Chews | Colors (Red 40, Blue 1) | Red variants typically use natural colorings or are not available in the same formulation. |
| Gelatin/Mixes | Often contain Red 40 and other synthetic dyes | These products may not be available or will feature natural colorings instead |
How to Avoid Red 40 in Candy and Processed Foods
If you are looking to cut Red 40 out of your diet, it is important to be a vigilant label reader. The dye is not only present in bright red candies but also in many other seemingly innocuous processed foods.
Always check the ingredients list: Look for "Red 40" or its technical name, "Allura Red AC," on the packaging. You can also look for the European code, E129, which some international products might use.
Choose naturally colored products: Opt for candies and foods that use natural colorings derived from sources like fruits, vegetables, and spices. Many organic products, in particular, ban the use of synthetic food dyes.
Look for specific certifications: Certifications such as USDA Organic can provide a greater assurance that the product is free of artificial colors, including Red 40. Some brands will also make explicit claims on their packaging that they do not use synthetic dyes.
Ultimately, knowing the facts about ingredients like Red 40 is the first step toward making informed dietary decisions. While the science continues to evolve, being aware of what's in your food empowers you to choose what is best for you and your family. For more information on food dye regulations, visit the FDA website.
Conclusion
To conclude, the presence of Red 40 in Starburst candy depends on the specific product and geographical region. For popular varieties like Original and FaveReds sold in the US, the ingredient list clearly indicates the inclusion of this synthetic dye. As awareness of food additive concerns grows, regulations are changing, with some US states and countries moving to phase out or ban synthetic colors like Red 40. For consumers who wish to avoid this additive, reading labels carefully and seeking out naturally colored alternatives is the best course of action. This informed approach allows for a clearer understanding of what is being consumed, moving toward more intentional and health-conscious food choices.
Keypoints
- Presence in US Starburst: Most standard and red-flavored Starburst products in the United States, including Original and FaveReds, contain Red 40.
- Ingredient Labeling: The presence of Red 40, or Allura Red AC, is listed on the ingredients panel of the packaging, which consumers can check before purchasing.
- Health Concerns: Some studies suggest a potential link between Red 40 and adverse neurobehavioral effects, particularly hyperactivity, in a subset of sensitive children.
- Regulatory Changes: The US FDA announced plans to phase out Red 40 and other synthetic dyes from the food supply by late 2026, a move influenced by recent evidence and consumer advocacy.
- International Differences: Due to varying food safety regulations, Starburst products sold in other countries like the UK do not contain Red 40 and instead use natural colorings.
- Natural Alternatives: Natural alternatives like beet juice and paprika are available for coloring food without synthetic dyes, which many organic products use.
- How to Avoid: Consumers can avoid Red 40 by carefully reading product labels and choosing certified organic or naturally colored food items.
