Mamba Candy's Coloring:
Many consumers are surprised to learn that Mamba fruit chews, manufactured by the German company Storck, do not use artificial food colorings like Red Dye 40 in their modern formulations. In fact, the company has explicitly stated on its US website that it relies on coloring concentrates from natural sources to achieve the vibrant appearance of its candies. The red color in Mamba, for instance, comes from black carrot juice concentrate, while other colors are derived from sources like spirulina, turmeric, and blackcurrant. This shift toward natural food coloring is part of a broader trend in the food industry, driven by consumer demand for fewer synthetic ingredients.
Why are consumers concerned about Red Dye 40?
Red Dye 40 (also known as Allura Red AC) is a synthetic food dye made from petroleum. While it has been approved for use in food and beverages by regulatory bodies like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for decades, it remains a subject of concern for some consumers. Some of the primary reasons for this concern include:
- Potential Link to Hyperactivity: Though studies have yielded mixed results, some research suggests a potential link between certain artificial food dyes, including Red Dye 40, and hyperactivity in some children. This has led many parents to seek out dye-free alternatives for their families.
- Allergies and Sensitivities: A small portion of the population may experience allergic reactions or heightened sensitivities to artificial food colorings, leading to adverse symptoms.
- General Avoidance of Synthetics: A growing number of consumers prefer to avoid synthetic additives and prioritize products with natural ingredients, believing them to be a healthier or cleaner choice.
Natural alternatives used in Mamba
Instead of relying on synthetic dyes, Mamba uses a combination of natural concentrates to color its chewy candies. A typical ingredient list includes:
- Black Carrot Juice Concentrate: This is a key ingredient for producing the red and purplish shades in the candy, which is why it is used in the strawberry and raspberry flavors.
- Turmeric Oleoresin: Turmeric extract is responsible for the yellow color in lemon and orange-flavored Mamba chews.
- Spirulina Extract: A blue-green algae, spirulina provides blue and green coloring for other flavors.
- Caramel Color: This is often used for a brown color, though it can have different properties depending on how it's manufactured.
The importance of reading the label
It is crucial to read the ingredient list on the specific package of Mamba candy you purchase. Food formulations can vary by region. For example, some products sold in the United States might differ slightly from those sold in Canada or Europe. In general, however, all recent Mamba versions found in the US and Canada confirm the absence of artificial dyes like Red Dye 40. This is a good practice for anyone concerned about specific food additives, as it ensures you are getting the most accurate information for the product in hand.
Comparison: Mamba vs. Candies with Red Dye 40
| Feature | Mamba Candy (Current Formulation) | Typical Candy with Red Dye 40 |
|---|---|---|
| Coloring Agent | Natural concentrates (black carrot, turmeric, spirulina) | Artificial food dyes, including Red Dye 40 |
| Source | Plant and fruit extracts | Petroleum |
| Associated Concerns | Generally regarded as safe (GRAS), though some may have sensitivities to specific natural sources. | Potential link to hyperactivity in some children, general synthetic additive concerns. |
| Regulatory Status | Allowed globally, often preferred due to natural origin. | Approved by FDA, but banned in some products (like Red Dye 3) and restricted in some countries. |
| Product Label | Lists specific natural color concentrates (e.g., black carrot juice concentrate). | Lists Red Dye 40 (or FD&C Red No. 40) explicitly. |
Beyond Red Dye 40: Other Mamba ingredients
While Mamba's use of natural colors is a major plus for some, it's worth noting other ingredients. Mamba does contain gelatin, which means it is not a suitable option for vegetarians or vegans. Some might also track sugar content, as it is a candy and contains significant amounts of sugar and glucose syrup. The product's overall health profile should be considered beyond just the absence of a specific dye.
Conclusion
In conclusion, consumers concerned about the presence of Red Dye 40 can be confident that current Mamba candy products do not contain this artificial coloring. The company has transparently moved towards using natural color concentrates derived from plants and fruits to achieve its signature vibrant shades. For those with sensitivities to artificial dyes, Mamba can be a suitable choice, though it is always recommended to check the ingredient label for the most up-to-date information. While the candy is free of synthetic red dye, it is not vegan due to the presence of gelatin, another important consideration for those with dietary restrictions. Ultimately, Mamba serves as a strong example of how consumer demand can drive manufacturers to reformulate products for a market that is increasingly ingredient-conscious.
You can view the nutritional information for Mamba directly on the Storck USA website.
