Do Mott's Fruit Flavored Snacks Contain Red Dye 40?
Many consumers are cautious about artificial food dyes, and Red Dye 40 is a common concern. Mott's, a well-known brand, produces fruit-flavored snacks that are often mistaken for traditional gummies, leading to questions about their ingredients. The official word from both Mott's and its parent company, General Mills, is that their fruit-flavored snacks do not contain Red Dye 40 or other artificial colors. This is a significant distinction that many health-conscious parents appreciate. Instead of artificial dyes, the snacks are colored with concentrates from fruits and vegetables, such as carrot juice and fruit juice.
The Shift Towards Natural Coloring
In recent years, many major food brands have moved away from artificial coloring in response to consumer demand for cleaner labels and more natural ingredients. Mott's has embraced this trend, explicitly stating on their packaging and website that their fruit snacks contain "no colors from artificial sources". This shift means that the red color in the snacks comes from natural sources rather than synthetic dyes like Red 40.
How Mott's Creates Vibrant Colors Naturally
To replicate the bright colors of artificial dyes, Mott's utilizes several natural sources. The specific ingredients can vary slightly depending on the flavor and variety, but common coloring agents include:
- Vegetable and Fruit Juice Concentrates: These are the primary source of coloring and flavor. Pear, apple, strawberry, and carrot juice concentrates are frequently listed ingredients.
- Annatto Extract: This is a natural food coloring derived from the seeds of the achiote tree.
- Turmeric Extract: Derived from the turmeric root, this is another natural source used for yellow coloring.
- Black Carrot Juice Concentrate: Used to achieve deep red or purple colors.
It is important to note that while Mott's fruit snacks are artificial dye-free, some other Mott's products may use artificial dyes. For instance, some of their applesauce flavors, such as Mixed Berry, have been noted to contain Red Dye 40 and Blue 1, so always check the label for each individual product.
Natural vs. Artificial Dyes: A Comparison
To better understand the difference, here's a comparison of natural and artificial coloring agents.
| Feature | Natural Coloring Agents (Used in Mott's Fruit Snacks) | Artificial Dyes (e.g., Red Dye 40) |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Derived from fruits, vegetables, and plant extracts | Synthetically created from petroleum products |
| Allergens | Considered less likely to cause allergic reactions | Some individuals may be sensitive or allergic |
| Health Concerns | Generally considered safe, though highly processed | Potential links to hyperactivity in children, a common consumer concern |
| Effectiveness | May result in slightly less vibrant and stable colors | Known for producing consistent, vivid, and stable colors |
| Labeling | Labeled as "vegetable and fruit juice added for color" or specific extracts | Listed by their common name or number (e.g., "Red 40") |
What to Look for on the Label
When purchasing any food product, checking the ingredient list is the most reliable way to confirm its contents. On a box of Mott's fruit-flavored snacks, you will find a list of ingredients that should confirm the use of natural coloring. Look for phrases such as:
- "Color (Vegetable and Fruit Juice Added for Color)"
- "Black Carrot, Radish And Sweet Potato Juice Concentrate (colour)"
- "Annatto Extract"
- "Turmeric Extract"
These ingredients indicate that the colors are derived from natural plant sources rather than synthetic chemical dyes. The presence of these ingredients, combined with the explicit "No colors from artificial sources" claim on the packaging, gives consumers confidence that the product is indeed free of Red Dye 40.
The Importance of Label Verification
While Mott's fruit snacks are a reliable option for those avoiding artificial dyes, different products, flavors, and even different markets (e.g., Canada vs. US) can have slightly different formulations. Therefore, it is always best practice to review the ingredients on the specific box you are purchasing. This is especially important for individuals with specific sensitivities or dietary restrictions.
Conclusion
In summary, the popular Mott's fruit-flavored snacks are free of Red Dye 40 and other artificial colorings, using concentrates from fruits and vegetables for coloring instead. This commitment to natural ingredients is a key selling point for the brand. However, consumers should remain vigilant by checking the ingredient list on any Mott's product they purchase, as some other items in their product line may still contain artificial dyes. For the fruit snacks specifically, you can enjoy them knowing they are colored naturally, without synthetic additives. Learn more about Mott's fruit snacks on their official website.
