Is Color 129 Artificial? Allura Red AC Explained

January 13, 2026 •

4 min read

According to the International Association of Color Manufacturers, Allura Red AC (E129) is a monoazo dye derived from petroleum. This synthetic origin confirms that the substance widely known as color 129 is indeed artificial. The food additive is extensively used across many industries to impart a vibrant red hue.

Quick Summary

Color 129, or E129, is an artificial food coloring also known as Allura Red AC or FD&C Red 40. It is a synthetic azo dye derived from petroleum and is used to provide a bright red color in many processed foods and cosmetics.

Key Points

Synthetic Origin: Color 129, identified as E129 or Allura Red AC, is an artificial, petroleum-derived colorant.
Alternative Names: The same artificial dye is known as FD&C Red No. 40 in the United States.
Azo Dye: E129 is specifically a synthetic azo dye that provides a vibrant red color.
Widespread Use: This artificial color is commonly found in processed foods, drinks, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.
Health Concerns: Some studies have linked Allura Red AC to hyperactivity in children, leading to warning labels in the European Union.
Regulatory Differences: Approval and labeling requirements for E129/Red 40 vary significantly between regions like the EU and the US.
Production Method: The manufacturing process for E129 is a complex chemical synthesis from petroleum, unlike the extraction used for natural colors.

A common point of confusion arises when a number is used to identify a substance. For the question 'Is color 129 artificial?', the number '129' can refer to a specific food additive, E129, or to a numeric value in a color system like RGB. However, when referencing the food industry, 'color 129' refers to E129, which is a synthetic colorant known as Allura Red AC. It is not a natural color derived from plants or minerals, but rather a compound synthesized from petroleum.

What Exactly Is E129 (Allura Red AC)?

E129, or Allura Red AC, is a red azo dye that is water-soluble. It is used as a synthetic coloring agent in a wide variety of food and drink products, as well as in medicines and cosmetics. It was originally developed as a substitute for the colorant amaranth (E123) in the United States and is referred to as FD&C Red No. 40 in that region. Its chemical formula is $C{18}H{14}N_2Na_2O_8S_2$. The dye is valued for its stability, which makes it suitable for large-scale production and extended shelf life.

The Synthetic Production Process

Unlike natural colors, which are extracted from sources like plants, fruits, or minerals, E129 is manufactured in a laboratory through a chemical synthesis process. It is primarily produced from petroleum-derived materials. The process involves complex chemical reactions, contrasting sharply with simpler extraction methods used for natural pigments. This synthetic origin is the definitive reason why Allura Red AC is classified as an artificial color.

Common Applications of Allura Red AC

Food and Beverages: E129 gives a bright red color to products like confectionery, desserts, flavored drinks, and bakery goods. It is often found in candies, cereals, and snack foods.
Cosmetics: It is used in cosmetics to achieve a consistent, vibrant red.
Pharmaceuticals: The color is used in medicines to aid in identification.
Other Products: E129 is also found in a variety of other consumer goods, including toys and cleaning products.

Concerns and Regulations

While E129 is approved by regulatory bodies like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in food, some concerns exist. Studies, such as the Southampton study in the UK, have suggested a potential link between certain artificial colorings, including Allura Red AC, and increased hyperactivity in children. As a result, in the European Union, products containing this colorant must carry a warning label stating, 'May have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children'. It is important to note that E129 has been banned in some European countries in the past.

Comparing Artificial and Natural Red Colors

When it comes to coloring food, manufacturers can choose between synthetic dyes like E129 and natural alternatives. Here's a comparison:


Feature	Artificial Red (E129 / Allura Red AC)	Natural Red (e.g., Beet Juice, Anthocyanins)
Source	Petroleum-based chemicals	Plant-based sources like beets, berries, and cabbages
Cost	Generally more cost-efficient for mass production	More expensive due to extraction and processing
Stability	Very stable in terms of heat, light, and acid	Less stable; can fade or change color over time
Vibrancy	Produces bright, consistent, and vibrant red shades	Tends to produce more muted, earthy tones
Shelf Life	Provides a longer shelf life for products	Shorter shelf life compared to synthetic options
Perception	Often viewed with health concerns by consumers	Perceived as healthier and cleaner by consumers

Understanding the Naming: E129, Allura Red AC, and FD&C Red No. 40

The name 'color 129' comes from its E-number, E129, which is the code used in Europe for the colorant Allura Red AC. In the United States, the same substance is known as FD&C Red No. 40. This can be a point of confusion, but the product is chemically identical regardless of the name. It was certified for use in the U.S. in 1971. The dual naming reflects different regulatory systems, but the artificial nature of the colorant remains the same.

Conclusion

In summary, the answer to 'Is color 129 artificial?' is an unequivocal yes. The numerical designation '129' in the context of a colorant refers to the synthetic, petroleum-derived azo dye known as Allura Red AC, or FD&C Red No. 40. While it is widely used for its cost-effectiveness and stability, its artificial nature and associated health concerns have led to increased scrutiny. Consumers can make informed choices by understanding the origins of their food's ingredients and reading product labels carefully. For more information on approved color additives, consult the U.S. Food and Drug Administration website.

Note: This article is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical or health advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Color 129, known as E129 or Allura Red AC, is a synthetic dye manufactured from petroleum-derived chemicals.

Yes, Allura Red AC is the chemical name for the food coloring known in the U.S. as FD&C Red No. 40.

E129 is found in a wide range of products including confectionery, desserts, sodas, and baked goods, as well as some cosmetics and medications.

E129 is considered artificial because it is synthetically produced in a lab from petroleum, unlike natural colors that are extracted from plant or animal sources.

Some studies, particularly one conducted in the UK, have linked Allura Red AC to increased hyperactivity in some children.

Historically, E129 has been banned in some European countries, though many bans were lifted with the implementation of certain EU directives. The EU now requires warning labels.

Yes, natural alternatives for red coloring include beet juice, paprika extract, and anthocyanins derived from fruits and vegetables.

The main difference is their source: natural colors come from plants, animals, or minerals, while artificial colors like E129 are synthetically produced from chemicals.

In the European Union, products containing E129 must carry a warning, but this is not a universal requirement in all countries, such as the United States.