Is Red 40 in Dr Pepper in the USA?

November 3, 2025 •

4 min read

Despite common misconceptions, the standard Dr Pepper sold in the USA does not contain Red 40. This question is part of a larger conversation about artificial food dyes, which are present in 19% of U.S. packaged foods and drinks. In this article, we'll settle the debate: is Red 40 in Dr Pepper in the USA?

Quick Summary

Regular Dr Pepper in the USA does not contain Red 40, but uses caramel color. Certain flavored variants, like Cherry Dr Pepper, do list Red 40 as an ingredient. The presence of artificial dyes in the food supply remains a topic of public discussion.

Key Points

Regular Dr Pepper is Red 40-Free: The standard US version of Dr Pepper uses caramel color for its dark brown appearance, not Red 40.
Cherry Dr Pepper Contains Red 40: Consumers should check the label on cherry-flavored varieties, as these products do include the artificial dye.
Check the Ingredients Label: To be certain, always review the ingredient list on the specific Dr Pepper product you purchase, as formulations can differ by flavor and region.
Artificial Dyes Under Scrutiny: The general use of artificial food dyes, including Red 40, is a subject of ongoing debate concerning potential health effects, especially in children.
Regulatory Actions are Changing: Legislation in some US states, like California, and ongoing FDA reviews suggest that regulations around artificial colorants are evolving.
Caramel Color is the Alternative: The color in regular Dr Pepper comes from caramel color, which is a different additive from Red 40.
Read the Fine Print: While the brand is popular, ingredient lists vary widely across its product line, requiring careful attention from consumers.

No Red 40 in Classic Dr Pepper, but Flavors Differ

One of the most persistent myths surrounding soft drinks is whether the classic Dr Pepper contains the artificial dye Red 40. The answer for the standard, original flavor sold in the USA is a definitive no. The dark, rich brown color of original Dr Pepper comes from caramel color, a common food coloring agent used in colas and other beverages. However, this is not the case for all Dr Pepper products.

The Important Distinction: Original vs. Flavored Varieties

The confusion over Red 40 often stems from flavored versions of the soda. For instance, Cherry Dr Pepper, Dr Pepper Strawberries & Cream, or other specialty fruity flavors often contain Red 40 to enhance their visual appeal. This practice is common across the beverage industry, where food manufacturers use artificial dyes to signal specific flavors to consumers. A consumer simply looking at a can of Dr Pepper might assume the ingredients are the same across the brand, but the flavor variation makes all the difference.

Understanding Dr Pepper's Ingredients

For those who prefer to avoid artificial dyes, understanding the ingredient list is crucial. The standard Dr Pepper formulation in the USA lists the following key components:

Carbonated Water: The primary base of the soda.
High Fructose Corn Syrup: The main sweetener, though some versions use sugar.
Caramel Color: Provides the characteristic brown color.
Phosphoric Acid: Adds tartness and acts as a preservative.
Natural and Artificial Flavors: This includes the proprietary blend of 23 flavors.
Sodium Benzoate: A preservative to inhibit microbial growth.
Caffeine: A flavor enhancer and stimulant.

The Controversy Surrounding Red 40 and Other Artificial Dyes

Red 40 is a synthetic color additive derived from petroleum. Its use, along with other artificial dyes like Yellow 5 and Yellow 6, has been controversial for decades. Research and advocacy groups have raised concerns over potential links to health issues, particularly in children. A 2021 report by the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment concluded that synthetic food dyes can "cause or exacerbate neurobehavioral problems in some children," an finding that has contributed to legislative action. While health organizations have differing views, the scrutiny has led to increased consumer awareness.

Regulatory Landscape and Consumer Choices

Regulatory approaches to Red 40 and other synthetic dyes vary globally. The European Union requires a warning label on products containing Red 40 and certain other dyes, stating that they "may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children". In the US, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has historically maintained that certified color additives are safe for use, but is currently under pressure to re-evaluate them. Some US states, most notably California, are proactively addressing these additives. For instance, a law passed in California will ban Red 40 and other dyes from public school foods starting in 2028.

Consumers, armed with knowledge, have the power to make informed decisions. Many companies are already phasing out artificial colors in response to market pressure, and checking ingredient labels is the most reliable way to know for sure. Research published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics in June 2025 found that synthetic dyes, including Red 40, are prevalent in US packaged foods, highlighting the need for vigilance.

Comparison: Standard vs. Cherry Dr Pepper


Ingredient	Standard Dr Pepper (USA)	Cherry Dr Pepper (USA)
Sweetener	High Fructose Corn Syrup	High Fructose Corn Syrup
Primary Colorant	Caramel Color	Caramel Color and Red 40
Acidulant	Phosphoric Acid	Phosphoric Acid
Flavors	Natural and Artificial Flavors	Natural and Artificial Flavors
Preservative	Sodium Benzoate	Sodium Benzoate

What to Look for on the Label

Original Dr Pepper: The ingredient list will show Caramel Color and not Red 40 or Allura Red AC.
Flavored Dr Pepper: The ingredient list for products like Cherry Dr Pepper or Dr Pepper & Cream Soda will likely include Red 40, often listed towards the end of the ingredients. Products like Dr Pepper Zero Sugar contain different artificial sweeteners but often maintain the same colorants as their full-sugar counterparts.

Conclusion: The Final Word on Red 40 and Dr Pepper

To answer the central question: Is Red 40 in Dr Pepper in the USA? The answer depends on which version you are drinking. The original, classic Dr Pepper is free of Red 40, deriving its color from caramel coloring. However, various flavored versions of Dr Pepper, such as the cherry variety, do contain Red 40. Given the evolving regulations and consumer awareness surrounding artificial food dyes, it is always best practice to check the ingredient label on the specific product you intend to purchase. By doing so, you can make a conscious choice about whether to consume beverages with artificial color additives. For more information on the health effects of synthetic food dyes, see the comprehensive report by the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment.

Where to Learn More About Food Dyes

For those interested in the broader context of artificial food dyes and their impact, a number of resources provide valuable information:

The Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) regularly publishes updates and research findings concerning food additives.
Academic studies, such as those found in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, offer peer-reviewed data on the prevalence and effects of synthetic dyes.
Health-focused news outlets like CNN and CBS News provide accessible summaries of regulatory actions and scientific controversies surrounding Red 40.

Ultimately, the responsibility falls to the consumer to stay informed and read labels carefully to align their purchasing decisions with their personal health preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, the standard Diet Dr Pepper sold in the USA does not contain Red 40. Like the regular version, its coloring is derived from caramel color, not artificial red dyes.

The dark brown color of classic Dr Pepper comes from caramel color, which is a common food coloring agent used in colas and other dark beverages.

Flavored versions of Dr Pepper, such as Cherry Dr Pepper and other fruity variants, typically contain Red 40 to enhance their appearance.

Yes, Red 40 is a common artificial food dye found in many soft drinks, especially those with red, orange, or purple colors. Consumers should always check the ingredient label for specific products.

Concerns about Red 40 and other artificial dyes include potential links to hyperactivity and neurobehavioral problems in some children, as documented in reports from agencies like California's Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment.

Yes, the FDA currently approves Red 40 for use as a certified color additive in food and beverages. However, the agency is facing pressure to reconsider its stance based on newer studies and regulatory actions in places like California.

Many beverage manufacturers now offer products made with natural colorants derived from sources like beet juice, paprika, or fruit extracts. Look for 'natural colors' or 'naturally colored' on the label.