Does Kellogg's use red dye 40? The current situation in the U.S.
The short answer is yes, Kellogg's has continued to use Red Dye 40 and other artificial colors in certain products sold in the United States, even after publicly committing to remove artificial colors and flavors by 2018. Prominent examples include some of the most vibrant cereals on the market, such as Froot Loops and Apple Jacks. These products, as of late 2024, still listed Red Dye #40 and other synthetic colorants on their ingredient labels in the U.S., a detail that has drawn significant consumer and activist concern.
A change is on the horizon
Despite years of using these dyes, a significant shift was announced in August 2025. Following an investigation by the Texas Attorney General, Kellogg's (specifically WK Kellogg Co for cereals) entered into a legally binding agreement to completely remove artificial food colorings from its U.S. cereals by the end of 2027. This move, along with California's legislation to ban several synthetic dyes from public school foods, signals a broader industry trend toward cleaner, more natural ingredients driven by consumer demands and regulatory pressures.
The international perspective: A tale of two ingredient lists
Consumer awareness of ingredient differences between countries has been a major factor in driving change. A stark comparison exists between the U.S. and versions of Kellogg's products sold in other markets:
- U.S. Froot Loops: Ingredients list includes artificial food dyes such as Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, and Blue 1 to achieve its distinctive colors.
- Canadian and European Froot Loops: These versions are reformulated with natural colorants, such as concentrates from carrot, watermelon, and blueberry juices, to avoid the EU's requirement of a warning label for artificial colors.
This double standard has long fueled criticism that U.S. consumers were being offered a lower-quality product. The upcoming change in U.S. formulations, driven by legal action and consumer protests, addresses this disparity.
What is Red Dye 40 and why is it controversial?
Red Dye 40, also known as Allura Red AC, is a synthetic food coloring derived from petroleum. It is one of the most widely used food dyes in the U.S., present in thousands of food products. The controversy surrounding it stems from several potential health concerns:
- Behavioral Issues: Research has suggested a possible link between the consumption of artificial food dyes, including Red Dye 40, and neurobehavioral problems like hyperactivity and inattention in some children, particularly those with ADHD. While the FDA acknowledges that a subset of children may be sensitive, the European Union requires warning labels on products containing certain dyes due to these concerns.
- Allergic Reactions: Though rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions, such as hives or swelling, after consuming Red Dye 40.
- Other Concerns: Animal studies have raised questions about potential links to DNA damage, inflammation, and impacts on the gut microbiome, though more human research is needed. Concerns have also been raised about potential contaminants like benzidine in the manufacturing process.
The ingredient list: How to spot Red Dye 40
To identify Red Dye 40 and other artificial colorants, it is crucial to read the ingredient list carefully. It may appear under several names:
- Red 40
- Red Dye #40
- FD&C Red No. 40
- Allura Red AC (especially on international packaging)
Additionally, be mindful of other common synthetic dyes often used alongside Red 40, such as Blue 1, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6, which are also facing scrutiny and regulations in some markets.
A Comparison of Cereal Colorants: U.S. vs. International Formulations
| Feature | U.S. Market (Historical) | International Market (Canada/EU) |
|---|---|---|
| Froot Loops Colorants | Artificial dyes: Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1 | Natural concentrates: Carrot, watermelon, blueberry juice |
| Primary Concern | Potential links to hyperactivity, allergic reactions | Compliance with regulations, avoiding warning labels |
| Regulatory Approach | FDA historically approved within limits; facing recent legal pressure | Stricter EU regulations, mandating warning labels |
| Consumer Expectation | Often driven by vibrant, consistent visual appeal | Growing demand for cleaner labels and natural ingredients |
| Future Outlook | Phasing out artificial dyes in cereals by 2027 | Long-standing practice of using natural alternatives |
Embracing a cleaner diet: Alternatives to artificial colors
For consumers and food manufacturers seeking to avoid synthetic dyes, a variety of natural coloring alternatives are available. These plant-based colorants can be sourced from fruits, vegetables, and spices to achieve vibrant hues naturally.
Natural Color Alternatives:
- Beetroot juice or powder: Creates a range of red to pink shades.
- Paprika extract: Can provide reddish or orange tones.
- Anthocyanins: Found in berries, red cabbage, and butterfly pea flower, these can produce red, purple, or blue hues.
- Turmeric: Excellent for yellow coloring.
- Spirulina: Provides a natural blue pigment.
While achieving the exact color intensity of synthetic dyes may require expertise and compromise, these alternatives offer a safer, cleaner ingredient profile for those prioritizing natural foods.
Conclusion: Making informed dietary choices
The question of Does Kellogg's use red dye 40? highlights a broader conversation about transparency and ingredient quality in the food industry. While Kellogg's has historically used Red Dye 40 in some U.S. products, especially colorful cereals like Froot Loops, recent agreements mean this practice is set to end by 2027. This shift reflects increasing consumer demand for cleaner labels and growing regulatory scrutiny of synthetic additives. For now, informed consumers can identify Red Dye 40 by checking ingredient labels and can opt for the increasing number of naturally colored alternatives, both in Kellogg's international offerings and other products on the market.
Beyond the Ban: How Eliminating Red Dye 3 is Transforming the Food Industry
