Most consumers are surprised to learn that regular bottled and canned Cherry Coke is not red, but rather the same dark brown as classic Coca-Cola. The reddish tint some people perceive is purely a sensory effect created by the cherry flavoring. The dark color is actually derived from an additive known as caramel coloring, which provides the distinctive cola look. However, the answer becomes more complex when considering other forms of the beverage, like those dispensed from modern soda fountains.
The Role of Caramel Coloring
Caramel coloring, listed as E150d in some countries, is a widely used food additive derived from heating carbohydrates like corn syrup. This process creates a dark brown liquid that is used in many foods and beverages, including Coca-Cola products, to provide a consistent and recognizable color. The use of caramel coloring in Cherry Coke ensures the beverage maintains the expected cola color while delivering its specific flavor profile.
Why No Red Color is Added to Bottles
For standard production, adding a red dye is simply unnecessary. The robust caramel coloring already provides a rich, dark base, and the cherry flavor can be achieved without any visual red cue. This approach keeps the ingredient list cleaner and distinguishes it from other cherry-flavored sodas on the market that do rely on artificial red dyes.
The Coca-Cola Freestyle Machine Exception
The most significant exception to the no-red-dye rule for Cherry Coke is found in Coca-Cola Freestyle machines. These touch-screen dispensers use highly concentrated flavoring cartridges that are mixed with a base soda on demand. For cherry and other fruit flavors, separate color cartridges are often used to provide the expected visual appearance that many consumers associate with those flavors. A user on Reddit confirmed that Cherry Coke from a Freestyle machine does contain added red dye to make it look red. This is a key distinction that can surprise those who assume all versions of the product are the same.
Ingredients by Product Version
Understanding the ingredient list for specific products is crucial, as formulation can vary by country and type. For instance, the ingredient list for Coca-Cola Cherry in Canada clearly lists "Caramel colour" and "Natural flavour" but no red dye. Conversely, a cherry soda from a competitor may explicitly list Red 40, like Dr. Pepper Cherry Zero Sugar. It's a reminder that a product's name does not guarantee its contents.
Here is a list of ingredients for different versions of Coca-Cola Cherry based on label information:
- Bottled/Canned Cherry Coke (US): Carbonated Water, High Fructose Corn Syrup, Caramel Color, Natural Flavors, Phosphoric Acid, Caffeine.
- Bottled/Canned Cherry Coke Zero Sugar (US): Carbonated Water, Caramel Color, Phosphoric Acid, Aspartame, Potassium Benzoate, Natural Flavors, Potassium Citrate, Acesulfame Potassium, Caffeine.
- Coca-Cola Freestyle Cherry Flavoring: Contains concentrated flavorings and colorings, which for the cherry version can include red dye 40, added during the mixing process.
Comparison: Bottled vs. Fountain
| Feature | Bottled/Canned Cherry Coke | Coca-Cola Freestyle Cherry Coke | Dr. Pepper Cherry Zero Sugar (Example) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Dark brown, similar to regular Coke. | Noticeably reddish hue due to added color. | Reddish hue, confirming Red 40 use. |
| Red Dye 40 | No, uses caramel color instead. | Yes, likely included in the concentrated syrup mix. | Yes, explicitly listed in ingredients. |
| Coloring Agent | Caramel Color. | Caramel Color (from the base coke) plus a separate red dye. | Caramel Color and Red 40. |
| Production | Pre-mixed, consistent formulation. | Mixed on-demand from separate flavor/color cartridges. | Pre-mixed, consistent formulation. |
| Key Takeaway | Visually deceiving, but dye-free. | Dyed to match consumer expectations of a cherry flavor. | Different product, confirms red dye use. |
The Red Dye 40 Controversy
Red Dye 40 (Allura Red AC) is a synthetic color additive derived from petroleum that has been approved by the FDA for use in food, drugs, and cosmetics. While the FDA considers it safe, its use is controversial. Some studies have suggested a link between artificial food dyes, including Red 40, and behavioral issues like hyperactivity, especially in children with ADHD. This has led some countries, particularly in Europe, to mandate warning labels on products containing these dyes. For sensitive individuals, the distinction between standard Cherry Coke and the Freestyle version is therefore highly significant.
Other Products that may Contain Red Dye 40
While Cherry Coke in bottles is free of Red Dye 40, it's worth noting where this dye commonly appears:
- Fanta Strawberry Sodas
- Hawaiian Punch
- Some gelatin powder mixes
- Many candies and cereals
- Dr. Pepper Cherry Zero Sugar
Conclusion
For those wondering if red dye 40 is in Cherry Coke, the simple answer is no for standard bottled and canned versions, which use caramel coloring. However, this is not the case for fountain beverages, particularly from Coca-Cola Freestyle machines, where additional red dye may be added to enhance the visual appeal of the cherry flavor. Consumers seeking to avoid Red Dye 40 must be diligent, especially when purchasing from fountains. Always check the ingredients list on packaged products and be mindful of the different formulations available on the market.
For further information on the safety and regulation of color additives, consult the official U.S. Food & Drug Administration website: FDA Color Additives.
