Does 7UP Contain Red Dye 40? The Definitive Ingredient Guide

December 24, 2025 •

4 min read

The short answer is no, original 7UP is a clear, dye-free beverage, but the key is to check the specific flavor. While the classic lemon-lime version contains no artificial colors, other products, like Cherry 7UP and Tropical Zero Sugar, do use the synthetic food additive Red Dye 40. Understanding this crucial difference helps consumers make informed choices based on their dietary needs.

Quick Summary

Original lemon-lime 7UP does not contain Red Dye 40 and is a clear beverage. Certain flavored varieties, such as Cherry and Tropical, contain the synthetic food coloring for appearance.

Key Points

Original 7UP is dye-free: The classic, clear lemon-lime 7UP does not contain Red Dye 40 or any other artificial colorings.
Flavored versions contain dye: Specific flavors, such as Cherry 7UP and Tropical Zero Sugar, use Red Dye 40 to achieve their red color.
Check the label: The most reliable way to confirm a product's contents is to read the ingredients list on the packaging.
Red Dye 40 is a synthetic additive: Also known as Allura Red AC, it is a petroleum-based food coloring used for visual appeal in many products.
Potential health concerns: Some studies have linked Red Dye 40 to hyperactivity in sensitive children, and it may cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
Clear sodas are an alternative: For those avoiding dyes, clear soda options like original 7UP and Sprite are good choices.

Is Original 7UP Dye-Free?

Yes, the original, clear lemon-lime flavored 7UP is completely free of Red Dye 40 and any other artificial colorings. The characteristic colorless appearance of the beverage is maintained by a list of ingredients that includes only filtered carbonated water, high fructose corn syrup, citric acid, and natural flavors. This makes it a popular choice for those seeking a colorless or dye-free soda option. For consumers with allergies or sensitivities to artificial colorings, the original 7UP is generally a safe choice to consider, though it's always wise to check the ingredient list on any product packaging due to potential regional variations or formula changes.

The Ingredients of Original 7UP

Here is a typical list of ingredients found in Original 7UP, according to the official product website:

Filtered Carbonated Water: The base of the soda.
High Fructose Corn Syrup: A common sweetener in many sodas.
Citric Acid: A flavor enhancer that provides the tangy, lemon-lime flavor.
Potassium Citrate: An acidity regulator.
Natural Flavors: The sources of the lemon and lime flavor.
Calcium Disodium EDTA: A preservative to protect the flavor.

Noticeably absent from this list is any mention of Red Dye 40 or other color additives, which is why the drink maintains its clear appearance.

Which 7UP Flavors Contain Red Dye 40?

While the original version is clear, 7UP produces several flavored variations, and many of these do contain artificial colorings to give them a distinctive appearance. These are the products where you will find Red Dye 40 and other dyes:

Cherry 7UP: This version, designed to have a cherry flavor, uses Red Dye 40 to create its red color. The ingredient list specifically mentions RED 40.
7UP Cherry Zero Sugar: For those opting for a zero-sugar version, it's important to note that the Cherry Zero Sugar variety also contains RED 40, along with other dyes like YELLOW 6 and YELLOW 5.
7UP Tropical Zero Sugar: The ingredient information for this product also includes RED 40 to achieve its distinct coloration.

This is a critical point for consumers to remember, as the presence of the 7UP brand name does not automatically guarantee a dye-free product. The color of the beverage is the most obvious indicator, but checking the ingredients label is the only way to be certain.

What is Red Dye 40 and Why is it Used?

Red Dye 40, also known as Allura Red AC, is one of the most widely used synthetic food colorings in the food industry. It's a petroleum-based additive used to enhance the visual appeal of food and drinks, making products like cherry-flavored sodas look red and appetizing. While approved for use by regulatory bodies like the FDA, its safety has been a subject of ongoing debate. Some research has linked synthetic food dyes, including Red Dye 40, to certain health concerns, particularly hyperactivity (ADHD symptoms) in a subset of children. Allergic reactions and sensitivities, such as hives or swelling, have also been reported in some individuals. This is why consumers who have sensitivities or simply prefer to avoid artificial colors should be vigilant about reading product labels.

Comparison Table: 7UP Varieties and Red Dye 40


Product Name	Contains Red Dye 40?	Typical Color	Key Use of Dye
Original 7UP	No	Clear	N/A
7UP Zero Sugar	No	Clear	N/A
Cherry 7UP	Yes	Red	Visual appeal
7UP Cherry Zero Sugar	Yes	Red	Visual appeal
7UP Tropical Zero Sugar	Yes	Red/Orange	Visual appeal

Are There Other Clear Sodas Without Red Dye 40?

For those looking for clear, lemon-lime sodas without artificial coloring, there are other options available. Many brands offer dye-free versions of their classic beverages. For instance, Sprite is well-known for its clear appearance, similar to original 7UP. Furthermore, artisanal or natural soda companies often avoid synthetic dyes altogether. When in doubt, always refer to the nutrition facts and ingredients label to ensure the product meets your dietary preferences. For more information on the safety of food additives, including Red Dye 40, you can consult authoritative sources like the Environmental Working Group (EWG) website. EWG's Food Scores

Conclusion

In summary, the presence of Red Dye 40 in 7UP products depends entirely on the specific flavor. The original lemon-lime 7UP, known for its clear appearance, is dye-free, while flavored variations like Cherry 7UP, Cherry Zero Sugar, and Tropical Zero Sugar do contain the synthetic food coloring. Consumers concerned about Red Dye 40 should always check the ingredients list, especially when buying flavored versions. By doing so, you can enjoy your favorite soda while remaining aware of the additives you are consuming. When seeking clear soda options, remember to rely on the product's official ingredient list rather than brand recognition alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, the original lemon-lime flavored 7UP is a clear beverage that does not contain Red Dye 40.

Flavored varieties like Cherry 7UP, 7UP Cherry Zero Sugar, and 7UP Tropical Zero Sugar are known to contain Red Dye 40.

Cherry 7UP is red because the manufacturer adds Red Dye 40, a synthetic food coloring, to give it an appealing red color.

Red Dye 40 is approved for use by regulatory agencies like the FDA, but some individuals experience side effects such as hyperactivity or allergic reactions.

The standard Original 7UP is clear and has a lemon-lime flavor. 7UP Zero Sugar is also clear and dye-free.

Alternatives include other clear sodas like Sprite, natural sodas without artificial colors, or simply checking the ingredients of any beverage before purchasing.

Some studies have suggested a link between synthetic food dyes, including Red Dye 40, and increased hyperactivity in certain children, though conclusive evidence is still under research.