A&W Products and Red Dye 40
The presence of Red Dye 40, also known as Allura Red AC, in A&W products is not consistent across all offerings. It's important to distinguish between the various forms of products to make informed choices. While the iconic, standard A&W Root Beer sold in cans and bottles typically does not contain Red 40, some items, particularly in restaurant settings, may.
Where to Find Red 40 in A&W Products
- Reports indicate that the syrup used for fountain root beer at some A&W restaurant locations contains FD&C Red No. 40.
- Certain flavored products, such as Cherry Syrup used for specific drinks, may list FD&C red #40 as an ingredient.
- The A&W Root Beer Singles To Go powdered drink mix contains Red 40, Yellow 5, and Blue 1.
- Some restaurant ingredient sheets list FD&C Red #40 in sauces like Papa Sauce.
Understanding Red Dye 40 and Its Health Implications
Red Dye 40 is a synthetic food colorant derived from petroleum, used to give products a vibrant color. While the U.S. FDA considers it safe, some concerns persist. Research has linked Red Dye 40 to potential health issues, including hyperactivity in children and allergic reactions. The EU requires a warning label on products containing Red 40.
Comparison of A&W Products
| Product | Does it contain Red Dye 40? | Typical Dye Used (If no Red 40) | Best Way to Confirm |
|---|---|---|---|
| A&W Canned Root Beer | No | Caramel Color | Check the ingredient list on the can |
| A&W Bottled Root Beer | No | Caramel Color | Read the label on the bottle |
| A&W Restaurant Fountain Root Beer | Yes, sometimes | Varies by restaurant and supplier. | Ask the staff to see the syrup ingredients |
| A&W Sugar Free Singles To Go | Yes | N/A (Contains Red 40) | Check the ingredient list on the box |
| A&W Cherry Syrup (at restaurants) | Yes | N/A (Contains Red 40) | Ask restaurant staff or check ingredient statements |
| A&W Papa Sauce (at restaurants) | Yes | N/A (Contains Red 40) | Review the ingredient sheet at the restaurant |
How to Check for Red Dye 40
Check ingredient labels and statements for names like FD&C Red No. 40, Red 40, Allura Red AC, or E129 (in Europe). For restaurant products, request to see the ingredients list.
Alternatives to Artificial Dyes
Natural alternatives to synthetic colorants include beet juice or powder, paprika extract, and anthocyanins.
Conclusion
Not all A&W products contain Red Dye 40. Standard bottled and canned A&W Root Beer is generally free of it, but some restaurant fountain drink syrups, powdered drink mixes, and certain sauces may contain the dye. To avoid Red 40, check ingredient statements or choose confirmed dye-free options.
For more information on the safety and effects of food additives, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration provides extensive resources on their website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the fountain version sometimes have Red 40, but the can doesn't?
The syrup in some fountain machines contains Red 40, unlike the canned/bottled formula which uses other coloring agents like caramel color.
Is Red 40 linked to any health issues?
Studies have suggested links to hyperactivity in children and allergic reactions. The EU requires warning labels.
What is Red 40 made from?
It's a synthetic, petroleum-based color additive.
What is Allura Red AC?
Allura Red AC is the chemical name for Red Dye 40.
Are all A&W products dye-free in cans and bottles?
No, products like the Sugar Free Singles To Go powder mix contain Red 40.
How can I avoid Red 40 when eating at an A&W restaurant?
Ask staff for the ingredient list for the specific item you are ordering.
What are some natural alternatives to Red 40?
Beet juice, paprika extract, or fruit juices can provide natural red coloring.
Key Takeaways
- Packaging Matters: Canned and bottled A&W root beer typically do not contain Red 40, but some restaurant fountain versions do due to different syrup formulas.
- Check Flavored Syrups: Certain flavored items served at restaurants, like cherry syrup and powdered drink mixes, contain Red 40.
- Red 40 is Synthetic: This common food dye is derived from petroleum and has faced scrutiny over potential health concerns.
- Regulatory Differences: While deemed safe by the FDA in the US, the EU requires warning labels on products with Red 40.
- Read Labels Carefully: Always check the ingredient list or ask for information at restaurants to confirm.
Citations
- {Link: Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/dyefreefamily/posts/2448242538846336/}
- {Link: Biorganic Blog https://biorganic.blog/2018/06/18/aw-menu-ingredient-statement/}
- {Link: Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/dyefreefamily/posts/2448242538846336/}
- {Link: H-E-B https://www.heb.com/product-detail/a-w-root-beer-sugar-free-singles-to-go-powder-drink-mix/1691167}
- {Link: A&W Root Beer https://www.rootbeer.com/flavors}
- {Link: EBSCO https://www.ebsco.com/products/research-databases/consumer-health-complete}
- {Link: Pederson's Natural Farms https://pedersonsfarms.com/blogs/news/the-risks-of-red-40-crucial-facts-uncovered-pedersons-natural-farms}
- {Link: Vegans With Appetites https://veganswithappetites.com/is-red-40-vegan/}
- {Link: ahimsahome.com https://ahimsahome.com/blogs/ahimsa-home-blog/red-dye-40-explained-health-risks-and-natural-alternatives}
- {Link: Nutritionix https://www.nutritionix.com/i/a-w/root-beer-soft-drink/51372b227c03030c7c000105}
- {Link: Biorganic Blog https://biorganic.blog/2018/06/18/aw-menu-ingredient-statement/}
- {Link: Healthline https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/red-dye-40}
- {Link: H-E-B https://www.heb.com/product-detail/a-w-root-beer-sugar-free-singles-to-go-powder-drink-mix/1691167}
- {Link: Facebook https://www.facebook.com/TodayILearned/posts/today-i-learned-culvers-root-beer-lists-red-40-as-an-ingredient/5725227894191331/}
- {Link: Foods Co https://www.foodsco.com/p/a-w-cream-soda/0007800000212}
- {Link: Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/dyefreefamily/posts/2448242538846336/}
