How to Check if Something Has Red 40

January 3, 2026 •

4 min read

Over 36,000 food products in the United States contain Red 40, a synthetic dye used to enhance visual appeal. Knowing how to check if something has Red 40 is essential for many consumers, particularly those concerned about its potential health effects. This guide simplifies the process of identifying this common additive in foods, beverages, and other products.

Quick Summary

This guide details the process of identifying Red 40 by examining ingredient labels. It covers alternative names for the dye and common product categories where it is found, empowering readers to make informed purchasing decisions.

Key Points

Know the Names: Search for 'Red 40', 'Allura Red AC', 'FD&C Red No. 40', or 'E129' on ingredient labels to identify the dye.
Check Unexpected Products: Red 40 is in more than just red items; it's also found in some fruit juices, chips, and even brown or white-colored products.
Look for Organic Labels: Organic products and those that specify 'natural colors' are less likely to contain Red 40, but always confirm by reading the label.
Be Mindful of Processed Foods: As Red 40 is cheap and shelf-stable, it is very common in processed foods like cereals, snacks, and candy.
Consider Alternatives: For home cooking and baking, natural colorants from sources like beetroot or paprika are excellent, dye-free alternatives.
Check Cosmetics and Medications: Red 40 is not limited to food. It is also used in cosmetics and some over-the-counter and prescription medications.

Understanding Red 40 on Ingredient Lists

Identifying Red 40 is a skill that requires careful attention to a product's ingredient list. Red 40, also known as Allura Red AC, is a synthetic food coloring derived from petroleum and used to impart a vibrant red color. However, it is not always explicitly labeled as "Red 40." Manufacturers may use several alternative names, so it's important to know what to look for when reading food, cosmetic, or medication labels. This diligence is crucial, as the dye is also used to create other colors, like purple, and can even appear in products that don't look red at all.

Where to Look for Red 40 on a Label

For food products, the ingredient list is typically located near the nutrition facts panel. Food dyes and other additives are often listed towards the end of the list, as ingredients are ordered by weight. For cosmetics and medications, check the packaging for a similar ingredients section. The FDA mandates that certified color additives must be listed on the label. If you see the names below, the product contains Red 40:

Red 40
Allura Red AC
FD&C Red No. 40
Red 40 Lake or FD&C Red No. 40 Aluminum Lake (used in coatings or solids)
CI Food Red 17
E129 (used in European products)
INS No. 129

Common Products to Inspect for Red 40

Red 40 is not limited to brightly colored candies and cereals. It's used in a wide range of processed goods for aesthetic purposes, often mixed with other dyes to achieve a desired hue. Many consumers are surprised to find it in products that don't appear red. Being aware of these common sources can help minimize accidental consumption.

Here is a list of product categories where Red 40 is frequently found:

Breakfast Foods: Many popular cereals (e.g., Froot Loops, Apple Jacks), toaster pastries, and flavored yogurts contain Red 40.
Snacks and Sweets: This includes candies (e.g., Skittles, Swedish Fish), fruit snacks, ice cream, popsicles, gum, and some flavored chips.
Beverages: Sodas, sports drinks (e.g., Gatorade), powdered drink mixes, and some fruit juices are common culprits.
Condiments and Sauces: Surprisingly, some varieties of barbecue sauce, salad dressings, and seasoning mixes may include Red 40.
Medications and Cosmetics: The dye can also be used in coatings for pills, in liquid medicines, and in a variety of cosmetics such as lipsticks and blushes.

Red 40 vs. Natural Colorants: A Comparison Table


Feature	Red 40	Natural Alternatives (e.g., Beetroot, Paprika)
Source	Derived from petroleum or coal tar byproducts.	Derived from fruits, vegetables, and minerals.
Cost	Significantly cheaper to produce for manufacturers.	More expensive and less efficient to process.
Color Stability	Highly stable and provides a uniform, vibrant color.	Can be less vibrant and may degrade with exposure to light, heat, or pH changes.
Health Concerns	Linked to potential health issues, including hyperactivity in some children.	Generally considered safer, though some people may have sensitivities.
Nutritional Value	Provides no nutritional value.	Many sources, like beetroot, contain beneficial nutrients.
Regulatory Status	FDA-approved in the US; requires warning labels in the EU.	Generally exempt from batch certification in the US.

Moving Beyond the Label: Additional Tips for Avoiding Red 40

While reading labels is the most direct method, there are other strategies to reduce or eliminate Red 40 from your diet. Choosing products from brands that explicitly state they use natural colorants, such as those that use fruit and vegetable juices, is a reliable approach. Another effective method is to choose organic products, which are less likely to contain synthetic dyes, though this is not a guarantee.

For greater control, preparing meals at home from scratch allows you to know exactly what goes into your food. This is especially helpful for parents who want to control their children's intake of artificial additives. Experimenting with natural colorants like beetroot powder or paprika can be a creative way to replicate colors in homemade baked goods and other dishes. A shift towards a diet rich in whole, minimally processed foods is the most effective way to limit exposure to Red 40 and other synthetic additives.

Staying Informed and Making Conscious Choices

The landscape of food regulations and consumer health concerns is constantly evolving. Staying informed about current research and regulatory changes, like the recent ban of Red 3 in certain products, is a proactive step. Given that Red 40 provides no nutritional or physical benefits, minimizing consumption can be a sensible choice for personal and family health goals. By prioritizing whole foods and being a diligent label reader, consumers can navigate the grocery store more confidently. For more information on color additives, consult the official guide from the FDA.

Conclusion

Checking for Red 40 requires more than just looking for the word "Red" on a package. By familiarizing yourself with its various names, such as Allura Red AC and FD&C Red No. 40, and knowing which products are most likely to contain it, you can make more informed decisions. Prioritizing whole, organic, and naturally colored foods is the most reliable way to reduce your exposure to this synthetic dye. Your vigilance as a consumer empowers you to take control of what you and your family consume.

Frequently Asked Questions

Red 40 is a synthetic color additive, also known as Allura Red AC, that is derived from petroleum. It is widely used in foods, beverages, cosmetics, and medications to enhance visual appeal.

Yes, Red 40 has several alternative names, including Allura Red AC, FD&C Red No. 40, and E129 (in Europe). It can also be labeled as 'Red 40 Lake' in certain products.

The FDA considers Red 40 safe for consumption when used in accordance with its regulations. However, concerns remain, especially regarding potential links to hyperactivity in children. Some individuals may also have sensitivities or allergic reactions.

To find Red 40, you must carefully read the ingredient list on the product's packaging. Look for the names mentioned above, which are typically listed along with other artificial colors and additives.

Natural alternatives to Red 40 include beet juice or powder, paprika extract, annatto, and fruit extracts like pomegranate or strawberry. Many of these are available commercially or can be prepared at home.

No. When a label lists 'artificial color' or 'color added,' it is usually referring to a synthetic dye, which could include Red 40. Always check for specific names if you want to be sure.

Red 40 is cheap to produce, shelf-stable, and provides a uniform, vibrant color that is visually appealing to consumers. It is also still legally approved for use in the US, although other countries have stricter regulations.

While organic products generally prohibit synthetic dyes, it is not an absolute guarantee. Always read the ingredient label to ensure no artificial colors are present, as some organic products might use approved natural colorants.