Plain Applesauce vs. Flavored Varieties
The fundamental difference lies in the ingredients. Standard, unflavored applesauce is made primarily from apples and water, and sometimes contains cinnamon and a sweetener. The color comes from the apples themselves and may range from a creamy off-white to a light tan, depending on the apple variety used. This version is naturally free of any artificial colorings like Red Dye 40.
Flavored applesauce, however, is a different story. To achieve a bright pink or red hue for varieties like strawberry or mixed berry, manufacturers often use synthetic food dyes. These are added for cosmetic purposes to match the consumer's visual expectations of a fruit-flavored product. The addition of these dyes, along with extra sugars and other flavorings, transforms a simple fruit purée into a processed food product.
How to Identify Red Dye 40 on Product Labels
Reading the ingredient list is the most reliable way to determine if Red Dye 40 is present. It can be listed under several different names, so it's important to know what to look for. Here are the key terms:
- Red 40
- FD&C Red No. 40
- FD&C Red No. 40 Aluminum Lake
- Allura Red AC
- E129 (commonly used on products sold in Europe)
These names all refer to the same synthetic food dye derived from petroleum. In addition to flavored applesauce, Red Dye 40 is found in thousands of other processed foods, including candies, cereals, snack foods, and beverages. For consumers seeking to avoid artificial colors, reading the fine print on the ingredient panel is a necessary habit. Brands that use only natural flavorings and colorings will typically highlight this on their packaging.
Potential Health Considerations and Research
While approved for use by regulatory bodies like the FDA, Red Dye 40 is a subject of controversy and ongoing research. Some studies have suggested a potential link between artificial food dyes and hyperactivity and other neurobehavioral issues, particularly in sensitive children. This has led certain health groups and consumer advocates to petition for restrictions or bans, similar to those found in some European countries. Other research in animal models has suggested potential links to inflammation and DNA damage, though further human studies are needed to confirm these findings.
It is important to note that the scientific community is not in complete agreement on the extent of these risks, and many regulatory bodies consider the dye safe at approved levels. However, for concerned parents or individuals sensitive to artificial additives, seeking alternatives without Red Dye 40 is a common and prudent approach.
Alternatives to Applesauce with Artificial Dyes
For those who prefer to avoid synthetic food colorings, there are many excellent options available. Homemade applesauce is the simplest, made from just apples and water, with optional natural additions like cinnamon or nutmeg for flavor. For store-bought convenience, many organic and natural food brands offer dye-free products. These brands often use natural ingredients for coloring, such as beet juice for a reddish hue or vegetable juice extracts. Some well-known brands that offer dye-free options include Eden Organic and Field Day Organic.
Comparison: Flavored Applesauce vs. Natural Applesauce
| Feature | Flavored Applesauce (with dye) | Natural Applesauce (plain) |
|---|---|---|
| Color Source | Artificial dyes (e.g., Red 40, Blue 1) | From the apples themselves |
| Appearance | Bright, vibrant, and uniform | Muted, natural, and variable |
| Ingredients | Apples, water, high-fructose corn syrup, added flavors, and dyes | Apples, water, sometimes cinnamon |
| Sugar Content | Often contains added sugars and corn syrup | Usually unsweetened or lightly sweetened |
| Processing Level | Moderate to highly processed | Minimally processed |
| Health Impact | Potential links to hyperactivity, other health concerns under investigation | Generally considered a healthier, less processed snack |
Conclusion
To answer the question, "Does apple sauce have red dye 40?", the answer is: it depends. While plain, traditional applesauce does not contain artificial dyes, many flavored varieties on the market use Red Dye 40 and other synthetic colors to achieve a vibrant hue. For health-conscious consumers, reading the ingredient label is the most reliable method for checking for this additive. Those concerned about the potential side effects of synthetic colorings can easily find or make natural alternatives. Choosing dye-free options, whether homemade or store-bought from trusted natural brands, ensures a purer, more straightforward snack while still enjoying the simple goodness of apples.
Can Apple Sauce Cause Hyperactivity in Children?
Evidence suggests a potential link between Red Dye 40 and hyperactivity in sensitive children, though research is ongoing. Parents who observe behavioral changes after consuming products with this dye may choose to switch to natural alternatives.
What Color Is Applesauce Supposed to Be?
Natural, unflavored applesauce typically has a pale, muted color ranging from off-white to light brown. Its appearance can vary based on the specific apple varieties used and whether the peels were included.
Is Red 40 Banned in Any Countries?
While still approved in the U.S. and Europe, some countries, particularly in Europe, require warning labels on products containing Red Dye 40, and some even label the dye with an 'E number' (E129). Some food companies even remove artificial colors from products sold in those markets.
What Are the Healthier Alternatives to Red Dye 40?
Natural food colorings are often derived from sources like beets, carrots, or paprika. These natural alternatives provide color without the synthetic chemicals found in dyes like Red 40.
Do Organic Applesauces Contain Red Dye 40?
Organic applesauces are certified not to contain synthetic additives like Red Dye 40, relying instead on natural ingredients for both flavor and color. Always check the ingredient list to be certain.
Why Do Companies Use Artificial Dyes Like Red 40?
Manufacturers use artificial dyes to restore or enhance color lost during processing and to make the product more visually appealing and uniform for marketing purposes.
How Can I Make My Own Applesauce Without Additives?
Making homemade applesauce is simple. You can use apples and water, then add natural flavorings like cinnamon or nutmeg to taste, with no need for any additives or dyes.
