Does Licorice Have Red 40? Separating Fact from Confectionery Fiction

October 15, 2025 •

4 min read

While traditional black licorice gets its color from natural licorice root extract, many popular red licorice candies prominently feature artificial colorings. The question of whether these candies contain Red 40 is a common query for health-conscious consumers, and the answer depends entirely on the product in question.

Quick Summary

The presence of Red 40 depends on the type of licorice. Traditional black licorice does not contain it, but many mass-market red licorice products use this artificial dye for their vibrant color.

Key Points

Product Type Matters: Only red 'licorice' candies typically contain Red 40; traditional black licorice is colored naturally.
Not True Licorice: Most red licorice is a fruit-flavored confection that does not contain actual licorice root.
Potential for Hyperactivity: Some studies link Red 40 consumption to increased hyperactivity, particularly in sensitive children.
Check the Label: To avoid Red 40, look for "Red 40" or "Allura Red AC" on ingredient lists of processed sweets and snacks.
Choose Natural Alternatives: Consider candies or snacks colored with fruit or vegetable juices, or opt for a whole-food diet.
Labeling Differences: European Union regulations are stricter, requiring a warning label on products with certain artificial dyes.

The Fundamental Difference Between Red and Black Licorice

To answer the question, "Does licorice have red 40?" it's crucial to first understand the distinction between black and red varieties. Traditional black licorice is flavored with the extract of the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant, also known as licorice root. This root is responsible for the confection's distinct flavor and natural dark color. True black licorice does not contain artificial red food dye.

In contrast, what is commonly sold as "red licorice" in North America is not real licorice at all. It's a confection that mimics the shape and texture of its black counterpart but uses entirely different ingredients. These candies are typically flavored with fruits like strawberry, cherry, or raspberry and use artificial coloring to achieve their bright hue. For example, popular brand Red Vines lists 'Red 40' directly on its ingredient list.

What is Red 40?

Red 40, also known as Allura Red AC, is a synthetic food dye derived from petroleum. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved it for use in foods, beverages, cosmetics, and medications. It is one of the most widely used food colorants in the United States, appearing in a vast number of processed foods, including cereals, drinks, and sweets. While considered safe for consumption by the FDA, a growing body of research and consumer advocacy has raised concerns about its safety, especially concerning children's behavior.

Health Concerns Associated with Red 40

The primary concern surrounding Red 40 involves its potential link to hyperactivity in children. Multiple studies, including a 2021 report by California's Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment, suggest an association between the consumption of synthetic food dyes like Red 40 and adverse neurobehavioral effects in some children. The effects can include inattentiveness, restlessness, and hyperactivity, even in children without a pre-existing diagnosis like ADHD. The FDA acknowledges this sensitivity in a subset of the population, advising parents to check labels and consult physicians if they are concerned.

Beyond behavioral issues, other studies have raised different health questions:

DNA Damage and Inflammation: A 2023 study in mice linked Red 40 consumption to DNA damage and colonic inflammation, though more human research is needed to confirm these findings.
Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to synthetic dyes, which can manifest as hives, swelling, or asthma-like symptoms.
Contaminants: Red 40 production has been known to involve contaminants like benzidine, a known carcinogen. While the FDA ensures purity, this has fueled safety concerns among consumer groups.

Navigating Artificial Colors in Your Diet

For those looking to reduce their intake of artificial colors, it's essential to become a diligent label reader. The presence of Red 40 is explicitly listed on ingredient labels, often by name or its alternative designation, Allura Red AC. Here are some common processed foods where you might find it, beyond red licorice:

Beverages: Many sodas, sports drinks, and powdered drink mixes use Red 40 for their color.
Snacks: Brightly colored chips, fruit snacks, and gelatins are often colored with this dye.
Sweets and Baked Goods: Check the labels on frostings, cake mixes, candies, and certain cookies.
Breakfast Cereals: Some vibrant-looking breakfast cereals contain Red 40 and other artificial colors.

Comparison Table: Black vs. Red Licorice


Feature	Traditional Black Licorice	Mass-Market Red "Licorice"
Primary Flavor	Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice root)	Artificial fruit flavors (strawberry, cherry, etc.)
Color Source	Natural vegetable carbon or licorice root extract	Artificial colorings, such as Red 40
Natural Ingredients	High proportion of natural extracts and colorings	Often contains no actual licorice extract; relies heavily on artificial ingredients
Artificial Additives	Minimal or none; depends on the specific brand	High probability of containing artificial colors, flavors, and high-fructose corn syrup
Nutritional Profile	Varies, but traditionally more natural	Typically high in sugar, lacking in nutritional value

Natural Alternatives and Mindful Consumption

For a truly healthy diet, the goal is not simply to avoid artificial colors but to focus on whole, unprocessed foods. When seeking alternatives to artificially colored sweets, consider the following:

Fruit-based snacks: Choose snacks made from real fruit puree or concentrate, which provide natural sweetness and color.
Naturally colored candies: Look for brands that use natural food coloring from sources like beet juice, black carrots, and turmeric.
Homemade treats: Creating your own snacks and desserts allows for complete control over ingredients and eliminates the need for artificial additives.

Mindful consumption also means being aware of the ingredients in packaged goods. While the occasional serving of red licorice is unlikely to cause significant harm for most people, making a habit of eating artificially colored foods can contribute to higher overall intake of processed ingredients with potential health implications. The European Union requires foods containing certain artificial dyes, including Red 40, to carry a warning label about potential effects on children's attention and activity.

Conclusion

In summary, whether licorice has Red 40 depends entirely on its color. Traditional black licorice does not contain this artificial dye. However, most widely available red licorice candies use Red 40 to achieve their signature hue. While the FDA considers Red 40 safe, research has highlighted potential risks, especially for certain children sensitive to food dyes. Consumers concerned about these additives can make informed decisions by reading labels and opting for natural alternatives, a healthier choice that aligns with a more wholesome, less-processed nutrition diet. For further information on Red 40 and its health impacts, consult reputable health resources. Read more on Red 40 and its effects from Healthline.

Frequently Asked Questions

Black licorice contains extract from the licorice plant (Glycyrrhiza glabra), which provides its distinctive flavor and dark color. Red 'licorice' is typically a fruit-flavored confection that contains no licorice extract and uses artificial coloring, such as Red 40.

No, not all red candy uses Red 40. Some manufacturers use natural colorings derived from fruits, vegetables, or spices, such as beet juice or paprika. Always check the ingredient list to be sure.

For most people, Red 40 has no side effects. However, some studies have linked it to increased hyperactivity in sensitive children, and in rare cases, it can cause mild allergic reactions like hives.

Red 40 is not banned in the United States, but in some countries in the European Union, products containing it must carry a warning label stating the dye may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children.

Red 40 can also be labeled as Allura Red AC, FD&C Red No. 40, or CI 16035. Checking for any of these names helps in identifying the artificial dye.

To reduce artificial food dye intake, focus on a diet rich in whole foods, like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. When buying packaged goods, read labels carefully and choose products that use natural colorings.

Licorice root extract contains glycyrrhizin, which can have adverse effects if consumed in large quantities, especially for individuals with certain health conditions like hypertension. It's best to consume it in moderation and consult a healthcare provider with concerns.