Is There Gasoline in Red 40? The Truth About This Petroleum-Based Dye

January 13, 2026 •

2 min read

Red 40 is a synthetic red azo dye derived from petroleum, but it does not contain gasoline. This dye is created through a chemical process that uses petroleum distillates as a base material. While this petroleum origin sounds alarming, the final product is a purified, water-soluble compound completely different from fuel.

Quick Summary

Red 40 is a synthetic food dye made from petroleum-derived products, not gasoline itself. The article clarifies the chemical process, compares Red 40 to gasoline and other additives, and discusses its uses and potential health controversies.

Key Points

No Gasoline Content: Red 40 is a purified, water-soluble dye and does not contain gasoline, despite both being derived from petroleum.
Derived from Petroleum: The dye, chemically known as Allura Red AC, is created through a process that uses petroleum distillates as a base material.
Chemically Distinct: Red 40 has a complex chemical formula (C₁ 十八章H₁₄N₂Na₂O₈S₂) that is fundamentally different from the hydrocarbon mixture found in gasoline.
FDA Approved: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considers Red 40 safe for consumption and requires it to be rigorously batch-tested for purity.
Behavioral Concerns: Some research suggests a link between Red 40 and behavioral issues, such as hyperactivity, particularly in sensitive children.
International Warnings: The European Union requires warning labels on products containing Red 40, highlighting potential effects on children's attention and activity.
Labeling is Key: Consumers can identify Red 40 on labels under names like "Red 40," "FD&C Red No. 40," or "Allura Red AC".
Natural Alternatives Available: Those wishing to avoid Red 40 can find products colored with natural alternatives derived from sources like fruits and vegetables.

Demystifying the Raw Materials: From Petroleum to Red 40

The perception that there is gasoline in Red 40 stems from the fact that both substances originate from the same raw material: petroleum, or crude oil. Crude oil is a complex mixture of hydrocarbons. While gasoline is produced through refining, Red 40 is a synthetic dye created through chemical reactions and purification of petroleum-derived distillates. The final food-grade product, Allura Red AC, is a pure compound distinct from fuel and free from crude oil contaminants.

The Chemical Composition: Red 40 vs. Gasoline

Red 40 (C₁ 十八章H₁₄N₂Na₂O₈S₂) is a complex organic compound. Gasoline is a blend of hydrocarbons. Regulatory bodies like the FDA and EFSA ensure Red 40 is a pure and consistent chemical entity through rigorous purification and certification processes. This batch-testing prevents contaminants.

Comparison of Red 40 and Gasoline


Characteristic	Red 40 (Allura Red AC)	Gasoline (Typical Automotive Fuel)
Source Material	Petroleum-derived distillates	Crude Oil (Petroleum)
Final Product	Purified, water-soluble synthetic dye	Volatile, flammable liquid fuel
Chemical Formula	C₁₈H₁₄N₂Na₂O₈S₂	Complex mixture of hydrocarbons (e.g., isooctane, heptane)
Manufacturing	Chemical synthesis and purification	Refining and distillation
Regulatory Status	FDA and EFSA approved color additive	Heavily regulated fuel source
Use Case	Food, drugs, cosmetics coloring	Internal combustion engines

The Health Debate: Separating Fact from Fear

The petroleum connection of Red 40 raises concerns, alongside other health debates. The Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) and others link Red 40 to hyperactivity in some children and allergic reactions. Studies also suggest possible links to inflammation and neurobehavioral changes, though conclusive human evidence is debated.

Points of Contention and Regulation

European Union Regulations: The EU requires a warning label on products with Red 40 and other synthetic dyes, stating, "May have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children". The U.S. FDA considers Red 40 safe.
Individual Sensitivity: A portion of the population, particularly children with ADHD, may be more sensitive to Red 40.
Natural Alternatives: Concerns about synthetic dyes increase the demand for natural alternatives from sources like beets and fruit juices.

How to Limit or Avoid Red 40

To limit or avoid Red 40:

Read the Label: Look for "Red 40," "FD&C Red No. 40," or "Allura Red AC" in the ingredients list.
Recognize the Products: It is common in candy, cereals, sodas, and some other processed foods.
Opt for Natural Coloring: Choose products with natural colorings like beet juice or paprika extract.
Cook at Home: Preparing food from scratch allows for control over all ingredients.

Conclusion

The idea that Red 40 contains gasoline is a myth. While both come from petroleum, Red 40 is a purified, food-grade dye distinct from fuel. Its safety is debated, with concerns about hyperactivity in sensitive children. Consumers should read labels and consider natural alternatives if concerned.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Red 40 is a synthetic dye derived from petroleum, also known as crude oil. However, the final product is purified and processed so that it is chemically distinct from its raw material and does not contain harmful contaminants.

Red 40 is controversial due to potential health concerns, including links to hyperactivity in some children and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. While regulatory bodies approve its use, the potential side effects are a subject of ongoing debate and research.

To identify Red 40, check the product's ingredient list for "Red 40," "FD&C Red No. 40," or "Allura Red AC." It is commonly found in processed foods like candy, cereal, and drinks.

Red 40 is not banned in the United States or the European Union, but the EU requires a warning label on products containing it regarding its potential effect on children's activity and attention. Some countries have stricter regulations or have phased out the use of synthetic dyes.

Many people choose natural dyes from sources like beets, carrots, or fruit juices as an alternative to Red 40 due to concerns about synthetic additives. While natural dyes are generally perceived as healthier, they can also cause allergic reactions in some individuals, and it's essential to check labels.

The link between Red 40 and cancer is inconclusive. Some animal studies have suggested potential carcinogenic effects at high doses, but these results have not been consistently replicated in human studies. The FDA maintains that Red 40 is safe when used within its regulations.

According to regulatory bodies, Red 40 has an acceptable daily intake (ADI) of 7 mg per kilogram of body weight. The average consumption levels for most Americans are far below this limit.