Does Jell-O Use Red Dye 40? A Look at Ingredients, Safety, and Alternatives

October 5, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the FDA, red dye 40 is a synthetic color additive approved for use in foods, but many consumers are concerned about its health implications. The question of whether this controversial ingredient is used in Jell-O is a common one for those monitoring their diet.

Quick Summary

Numerous Jell-O flavors and products, particularly those colored red or orange, contain the artificial coloring known as red dye 40. Some variants are colored using other dyes, while specific reformulations are eliminating artificial colors entirely.

Key Points

Contains Red Dye 40: Many red and orange Jell-O products contain red dye 40, a synthetic coloring also known as Allura Red AC or E129.
Synthetic Origin: Red dye 40 is a synthetic, petroleum-based substance used for its vibrant and consistent color.
Health Concerns: Links between red dye 40 and hyperactivity in sensitive children are a primary concern, prompting warning labels in the EU. Recent animal studies also suggest potential for DNA damage and gut inflammation.
Shifting Production: As of 2025, Kraft Heinz announced plans to phase out all artificial dyes from its US products, including Jell-O, by the end of 2026.
Natural Alternatives: Consumers can use natural colorings from sources like beets, berries, or paprika when making homemade gelatin desserts to avoid synthetic dyes.
Not all flavors have it: Some Jell-O products, like specific pudding varieties, do not contain red dye 40, but may contain other artificial colors.

For many, Jell-O is a nostalgic dessert, a wobbly, sweet treat that comes in a variety of bright colors. However, with increased public scrutiny of food additives, consumers are becoming more ingredient-conscious. One of the most frequently questioned additives is red dye 40, a synthetic food coloring found in many processed products.

The Presence of Red Dye 40 in Jell-O

Yes, many red and some orange varieties of Jell-O products contain red dye 40. This artificial color is added to provide a vibrant, consistent color. Checking the ingredients list on products like strawberry or orange Jell-O snacks will often show "Red 40" or "FD&C Red No. 40". The specific color additives can differ by product and flavor; for example, some orange Jell-O snacks use Red 40 and Yellow 6, while certain Jell-O pudding products may use different artificial colors.

A Closer Look at Red Dye 40

Red dye 40, also known as Allura Red AC or E129, is a synthetic food coloring derived from petroleum. It is widely used due to its cost-effectiveness and ability to create various colors, often combined with other dyes. Manufacturers utilize it to enhance product appearance and associate colors with specific flavors like cherry or strawberry.

Potential Health Concerns Associated with Red Dye 40

While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves red dye 40, its regulation varies globally, and it remains a subject of debate. Potential health concerns include:

Hyperactivity in Children: Studies, including the 2007 Southampton study, have indicated a link between synthetic food dyes and increased hyperactivity in children. The FDA notes that while most children are unaffected, sensitive individuals might show adverse behavioral effects.
Allergic Reactions: Although uncommon, allergic responses to food dyes, including red dye 40, can occur, manifesting as hives or swelling.
Potential for DNA Damage and Inflammation: Recent animal research, such as a 2023 study in mice, has connected red dye 40 to DNA damage, low-grade colon inflammation, and changes in the gut microbiome. Further human studies are needed to confirm these potential long-term effects.

Kraft Heinz Moves Away From Artificial Dyes

In April 2025, Kraft Heinz, the company owning Jell-O, announced plans to remove artificial food dyes, including red dye 40, from its U.S. products by the end of 2026. This initiative involves reformulating many Jell-O products to use natural colorings, responding to consumer demand for more natural ingredients.

Comparing Jell-O with Natural Alternatives

For those looking for alternatives to standard Jell-O, understanding ingredient differences is important. Below is a comparison:


Feature	Classic Jell-O	Homemade Gelatin Dessert
Ingredients	Gelatin, sugar or artificial sweetener, artificial flavor, red dye 40 and other synthetic dyes	Unflavored gelatin (or plant-based alternative), fruit juice, natural sweetener
Color Source	Synthetic, petroleum-based dyes	Natural sources like berries or beet juice
Potential Health Concerns	Linked to hyperactivity in sensitive children; some studies suggest links to inflammation and DNA damage	Generally considered safer; depends on the safety of the natural ingredients used
Best For	Consumers unconcerned with artificial additives, traditional taste	Health-conscious individuals, vegans/vegetarians (with plant-based alternative), those avoiding artificial colors

Natural Alternatives to Red Dye 40

To avoid artificial food coloring in homemade recipes, consider these natural options:

Beetroot: Provides a vibrant red color.
Berries: Puréed or juiced, such as raspberries or cranberries, can add red tones.
Paprika: Offers a reddish-orange hue.
Cochineal/Carmine: A red dye from crushed insects, used as a natural alternative but not suitable for vegans.
Hibiscus Powder: Gives a deep crimson color and slight tanginess.

Conclusion

While many red Jell-O products currently contain red dye 40, manufacturers like Kraft Heinz are moving towards using natural color alternatives in response to consumer preferences. Though the FDA considers red dye 40 safe, concerns regarding potential health risks mean many consumers are seeking dye-free options. The best way to confirm the presence of red dye 40 in Jell-O is to read the ingredient label. For a completely dye-free option, a homemade gelatin dessert with natural coloring is a good choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, not all Jell-O flavors contain red dye 40. While it is commonly found in red and orange gelatin desserts, other products like chocolate pudding or non-red varieties use different coloring agents or no artificial color at all.

Red dye 40 is not banned in Europe, but products containing it and other artificial dyes are required to carry a warning label stating they "may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children".

For most people, red dye 40 poses little health risk. However, some evidence suggests that in a small subset of children with ADHD, it may worsen symptoms of hyperactivity. Some animal studies also point to potential links with inflammation and DNA damage, but human studies are lacking.

Red dye 40, officially known as Allura Red AC, is a synthetic food dye derived from petroleum byproducts. It is manufactured through a chemical process and does not occur naturally.

No, Jell-O is not vegan because its primary ingredient, gelatin, is an animal byproduct derived from the collagen found in the bones and skin of cows or pigs. A gelatin-based dessert cannot be considered vegan, regardless of its coloring.

Natural options for red coloring in food include beetroot juice or powder, puréed berries (like raspberries or cranberries), and hibiscus powder. Some non-vegan natural options include carmine, derived from insects.

Yes, following their 2025 announcement, Kraft Heinz plans to phase out artificial dyes from many of its products, including Jell-O, by the end of 2026. This move will make more naturally-colored Jell-O options available.

The most effective ways to avoid red dye 40 are to read all ingredient labels carefully for 'Red 40,' 'FD&C Red No. 40,' or 'Allura Red AC,' choose products labeled 'dye-free' or 'no artificial colors,' and prepare more meals and desserts from scratch.