Is There Red Dye 40 in Starburst? Unpacking Your Nutrition Diet Choices

As the most widely used artificial food coloring, Red 40 is found in thousands of processed foods. This often raises the question: Is there red dye 40 in Starburst? The answer, for original and "All Pink" varieties, is yes, and understanding its presence is key to managing your nutrition diet.

Quick Summary

Original and 'All Pink' Starburst contain the artificial color Red 40, along with other synthetic dyes. Consumers can examine ingredient labels to find these additives and explore natural alternatives for a healthier diet.

Key Points

• Red 40 Is in Starburst: Original, "All Pink," and FaveREDS Starburst varieties all contain the artificial dye Red 40.

• Health Concerns Exist: Synthetic food dyes like Red 40 are linked to hyperactivity in some sensitive children and are primarily found in nutritionally sparse, ultra-processed foods.

• Labels Are Key: Consumers can identify synthetic colors like Red 40 by reading the ingredients list, as they must be specifically named on the label.

• Regulations Differ Globally: Many countries in the European Union require warning labels on foods with Red 40, a practice not currently mandated in the U.S..

• Dye-Free Options Available: Many brands offer candies and snacks colored with natural ingredients like beet juice and paprika, providing alternatives for those who wish to avoid synthetic dyes.

• Upcoming Changes: The FDA has announced plans to end the use of Red 40 and other artificial color additives in foods by the end of 2026.

• Focus on Whole Foods: Limiting ultra-processed foods entirely is the best strategy for a healthier diet, regardless of the coloring used.

Yes, Red Dye 40 Is in Starburst

For those wondering, "Is there red dye 40 in Starburst?", the answer is a straightforward yes for many popular varieties. Both the classic Original Fruit Chews and the wildly popular "All Pink" packages list Red 40 (also known as Allura Red AC) as one of the coloring agents. The FaveREDS variation, which includes cherry and strawberry flavors, also contains Red 40. While a small amount by volume, its inclusion is intentional to provide the vibrant, consistent color that consumers expect from their candy.

Why Artificial Colors Are Used in Candy

Food manufacturers use artificial food dyes like Red 40 primarily for visual appeal. These synthetic, petroleum-derived colors are inexpensive and highly stable, maintaining their brightness and consistency even under various processing conditions. A colorless and somewhat bland candy is simply not as marketable as one that is bursting with a rainbow of vibrant hues. Food dyes create a strong association between a specific color and flavor, such as red for strawberry or cherry, which enhances the perception of taste for the consumer.

The Health Debate Surrounding Artificial Dyes

While the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates and certifies artificial colors for use in food, a long-standing debate exists regarding their potential health effects. Research and regulatory actions from other countries have raised questions that many consumers take seriously when considering their nutrition diet.

Potential Health Concerns

• Hyperactivity in Children: Several studies have linked the consumption of artificial food dyes, including Red 40, to hyperactivity and other neurobehavioral issues in some children. While the FDA states most children are unaffected, it acknowledges that a subgroup of children may be sensitive. The European Union requires a warning label on foods containing Red 40 and other specified dyes, which has led many companies to use natural alternatives in products sold there.
• Other Risks: Artificial food dyes have been associated with other health concerns, including allergies and potential links to certain cancers in animal studies. It is important to note, however, that the link to cancer risk in humans is currently unclear, and ongoing research is necessary.
• Ultra-Processed Foods: The biggest health concern related to products containing dyes is not necessarily the dye itself, but that these products are often ultra-processed. Ultra-processed foods typically contain high levels of sugar, saturated fat, and sodium, and have a low nutritional value, contributing to a range of chronic diseases.

A Shifting Regulatory Landscape

In recent years, the FDA has been taking steps to transition the U.S. away from artificial food dyes. An announcement in April 2025 outlined plans to revoke authorization for Red 40 and other artificial colors for food and drink applications by the end of 2026. This move reflects increasing public and regulatory pressure to move toward more natural food ingredients, aligning with practices already in place in many other countries.

How to Find Candy Without Artificial Dyes

Navigating the world of candy and processed foods can be tricky when you're trying to avoid artificial dyes. Here's a quick guide to help you make more informed choices.

1. Read the Ingredient List: This is the most crucial step. All FDA-certified artificial color additives must be explicitly named on the label, such as "Red 40," "FD&C Yellow No. 5," or "Blue 1". If you see these chemical-sounding names, you know they contain synthetic dyes.
2. Look for Natural Alternatives: Many products now use color additives exempt from certification, which can be listed as "natural flavors" or "color added" and often come from natural sources. Look for ingredients like beet juice, annatto extract, turmeric, or fruit and vegetable juices for coloring.
3. Choose Organic: Organic products generally prohibit the use of synthetic food dyes. While not every product with natural dyes is organic, opting for certified organic candies or snacks is a reliable way to avoid synthetic colors.
4. Support Dye-Free Brands: An increasing number of brands focus on clean ingredients, specifically marketing their products as "dye-free." Some popular brands include Yum Earth, Black Forest, and certain products from Trader Joe's.
5. Check for Reformulated Products: Keep an eye out for brands that are reformulating their products. Mars Wrigley, the parent company of Starburst, has announced plans to offer dye-free options for some of their products in the near future.

Comparison Table: Starburst vs. Dye-Free Alternatives

Feature	Starburst Original Fruit Chews	Yum Earth Organic Fruit Snacks	Homemade Gelatin Chews
Key Dyes	Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1	None	None
Added Sugar	Yes (Corn syrup, sugar)	Yes (Organic cane sugar)	Control sugar level
Primary Color Source	Synthetic, petroleum-based	Fruit & vegetable juices, annatto	Fruit or vegetable juice
Nutritional Profile	Ultra-processed, low nutritional value	Processed, but better ingredient profile	Whole food ingredients
Flavoring	Natural and artificial flavors	Natural fruit flavors	Pureed fruits or juice

How to Make Healthier Choices for Your Diet

For a truly robust nutrition diet, it's beneficial to look beyond just the presence of artificial dyes and consider the overall nutritional value of the foods you consume. Here are some strategies:

• Prioritize Whole Foods: A diet centered on whole, unprocessed foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins is naturally free of synthetic dyes and other additives. These foods offer maximum nutritional benefits.
• Read All Labels: Don't stop at the color additives. Check the sugar content, saturated fat, and other processed ingredients to get a full picture of what you're eating.
• Cook at Home: When you prepare your own food, you have complete control over the ingredients. You can experiment with natural colorings from plant-based sources like beet juice, spinach, or turmeric to create vibrant dishes without synthetic additives.
• Discuss with a Physician: If you or your child exhibits symptoms like hyperactivity or allergic reactions after consuming certain foods, it's important to discuss this with a doctor or dietitian. They can help you identify potential sensitivities and develop a personalized plan.

Conclusion: Making Mindful Decisions

The question of "is there red dye 40 in Starburst?" highlights a broader issue about the ingredients in processed foods. Yes, original Starburst and many other variations use Red 40 and other synthetic colorants to achieve their bright, appealing look. While considered safe by the FDA, a growing body of evidence and differing international regulations suggest a need for consumer awareness. By actively reading ingredient labels, exploring naturally colored alternatives, and focusing on a diet rich in whole foods, you can make more mindful decisions that support a healthier nutrition diet for yourself and your family. The trend toward cleaner labels means more options are becoming available, empowering consumers to make better choices without sacrificing flavor or fun.

Center for Science in the Public Interest provides extensive information and research on the health risks associated with synthetic food dyes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Starburst flavors contain Red 40?

The ingredient labels for Original Fruit Chews, FaveREDS, and All Pink Starburst all list Red 40 as a coloring agent.

What is Red Dye 40?

Red Dye 40, or Allura Red AC, is a synthetic food dye made from petroleum-based chemicals that is used to give many processed foods and candies their vibrant red and pink colors.

Is Red Dye 40 safe to eat?

The FDA considers Red Dye 40 safe for its intended use; however, some studies suggest a link between Red 40 and hyperactivity in some children. International regulations differ, with the EU requiring a warning label on products containing it.

How can I check if a food product has Red 40?

To check for Red 40, you should read the ingredient list on a food product's packaging and look for "Red 40" or its full name, "Allura Red AC".

Are there any Starburst without artificial dyes?

As of late 2025, no currently available versions of Starburst are advertised as completely free of artificial dyes in the U.S., though Mars Wrigley has announced plans for dye-free options in 2026.

What are natural alternatives to Red 40?

Natural food colorants used to achieve a red color include beetroot extract, paprika oleoresin, and fruit or vegetable juices from sources like pomegranate.

Why do some food manufacturers use artificial dyes instead of natural colors?

Artificial dyes are often preferred by manufacturers because they are cheaper, more stable, and more consistent in color compared to natural alternatives, which can sometimes alter flavor or fade over time.

What is the difference between U.S. and E.U. regulations for food dyes?

Unlike the U.S., the European Union requires a warning label on products containing certain dyes like Red 40, stating they "may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children." This has prompted many companies to reformulate for the European market.