The Short Answer: Is there red 40 in Reese's Pieces?
Yes, Reese's Pieces contain the artificial food coloring Red 40, which appears on the ingredients list as 'Red 40 Lake'. Alongside it, the candy also contains other artificial colors, including 'Yellow 5 Lake,' 'Yellow 6 Lake,' and 'Blue 1 Lake'. For individuals with sensitivities to food dyes or those following a diet that restricts artificial additives, this is a crucial piece of information to consider before consuming the product.
Why Do Companies Use Artificial Colors?
Food manufacturers add synthetic food dyes to enhance the visual appeal of processed foods and ensure a consistent color in every batch. The vibrant oranges, yellows, and browns of Reese's Pieces are not derived from natural sources but are instead the product of these artificial ingredients. This aesthetic appeal is a key part of the marketing and consumer experience for many candies, but it comes at the cost of using chemically derived additives.
Deconstructing the Ingredients List
Understanding the full list of ingredients in Reese's Pieces provides a clearer picture beyond just the food dyes. The primary components are sugar and partially defatted peanuts, along with various oils and other additives. A significant ingredient of note for some diets, including vegan and kosher, is the 'Confectioner's Glaze'. This glaze is often derived from insects and used to create the candy's shiny outer shell, making the product non-vegan despite a recent reformulation.
Key Ingredients in Reese's Pieces
- Sugar: The primary ingredient, contributing to the candy's high sugar content.
- Partially Defatted Peanuts: Provides the distinct peanut butter flavor.
- Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil: Used to create the candy's texture and consistency.
- Artificial Colors: Including Yellow 5 Lake, Yellow 6 Lake, Red 40 Lake, and Blue 1 Lake.
- Confectioner's Glaze: Derived from insects and used for the candy's shiny coating, rendering it non-vegan.
- Lecithin (Soy): An emulsifier used to stabilize the ingredients.
In August 2025, Hershey's made a quiet reformulation of the recipe, removing milk and dextrose from the US version. While this change makes the candy dairy-free and potentially more accessible for those with dairy allergies, it did not eliminate the artificial dyes. Consumers should always check the label of a specific package, as older inventory may still be on shelves.
Potential Concerns and Dietary Implications
For some individuals, especially children, the consumption of artificial food colorings like Red 40 can be a concern. While regulatory bodies like the FDA in the US have deemed these dyes safe for consumption, some studies and advocacy groups suggest links to behavioral issues in some children. European regulations on food dyes are stricter, and many European products use natural alternatives. For those trying to maintain a 'clean label' diet, these artificial additives are often a primary component to avoid.
Adhering to a diet focused on whole, unprocessed foods means scrutinizing ingredient lists for additives. Candies like Reese's Pieces, while a popular treat, are considered an ultra-processed food by organizations like the Environmental Working Group (EWG) due to their high sugar content and synthetic ingredients. The health implications of consuming too many ultra-processed foods are an area of ongoing nutritional discussion.
Comparison of Candies with Artificial Dyes
| Candy Product | Primary Ingredient(s) | Contains Red 40? | Other Artificial Dyes? | Vegan Friendly? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reese's Pieces | Sugar, Partially Defatted Peanuts | Yes | Yellow 5 Lake, Yellow 6 Lake, Blue 1 Lake | No, due to confectioner's glaze |
| M&M's Peanut | Milk Chocolate, Peanuts, Sugar | Yes | Yellow 6, Yellow 5, Blue 1, Blue 2 Lake | No, due to milk chocolate |
| Natural Gummy Bears (example) | Fruit juice concentrates, organic sweeteners | No | No, uses fruit/vegetable juices for color | Can be, check specific brand |
Finding Natural Alternatives
For those seeking alternatives to candy with artificial dyes, the market offers a growing selection. Companies are increasingly responding to consumer demand for cleaner labels by using natural colorings. Ingredients like beet juice for red, turmeric for yellow, and spirulina for blue can be found in many organic and dye-free candies. Exploring brands that prioritize transparency and natural ingredients is a simple way to satisfy a sweet tooth without the artificial additives. For more information on food additives and healthier alternatives, authoritative sources such as the Environmental Working Group (EWG) provide detailed reports on processed food products.
Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions
When considering your dietary choices, answering the question, 'Is there red 40 in Reese's Pieces?' is a useful exercise in understanding what is in the food we eat. The clear answer is yes, Red 40 Lake is an ingredient, along with other artificial colors and additives. For those managing sensitivities, aiming for a cleaner diet, or simply curious about their food, reading labels is the most reliable method for making informed decisions. While moderation is key for any treat, being aware of the ingredients allows for a more conscious approach to nutrition and diet.
