Nutrition Diet: Which candies do not have red dye 40?

October 26, 2025 •

3 min read

The US FDA's recent phase-out of Red Dye 3 over health concerns has prompted many consumers to ask: Which candies do not have red dye 40?. Fortunately, an increasing number of companies are using natural colorants, making it easier than ever to find delicious treats without synthetic additives.

Quick Summary

This guide provides a comprehensive list of candy brands that are free of artificial Red Dye 40. It also explains how to identify natural alternatives and read ingredient labels effectively to make informed snacking choices.

Key Points

Natural colorants are the key: Many candies without Red Dye 40 use plant-based alternatives like fruit juices, beet powder, and paprika extract.
Read the ingredient label carefully: Check for terms like FD&C Red No. 40, Allura Red AC, or E129 to identify synthetic dyes.
Look for reputable brands: Brands such as YumEarth, SmartSweets, and UNREAL specialize in dye-free products and are readily available.
Many organic candies are dye-free: Products certified as organic often prohibit the use of artificial colors, making them a safe choice.
Sensitivities and behavior are a concern: While not everyone reacts, some individuals, especially children, may experience allergic reactions or behavioral changes from Red Dye 40.
Some chocolate is dye-free: The majority of plain chocolate is naturally free of Red Dye 40, but always check for flavored or chocolate-covered candies.

The shift to dye-free: What is Red Dye 40?

Red Dye 40, also known as Allura Red AC or FD&C Red No. 40, is a synthetic food coloring derived from petroleum. It is one of the most widely used artificial dyes in the food industry. The increasing focus on healthier eating and potential health concerns associated with synthetic dyes have led many consumers to look for alternatives.

Health concerns associated with synthetic dyes

Despite approval by regulatory bodies like the FDA, studies have raised questions about the safety of Red Dye 40. Concerns include potential allergic reactions, sensitivities, and neurobehavioral effects in children. Some research has also explored potential long-term risks like gut inflammation and DNA damage, though these findings are primarily from animal studies.

A guide to candies without Red Dye 40

Many candies now use natural colorants from fruits, vegetables, and other plants instead of Red Dye 40. Here are some brands and types known for their dye-free options:

YumEarth: Offers organic, dye-free candies like pops, giggles, and gummy fruits colored with fruit and vegetable juices.
SmartSweets: Uses natural juices for color in their low-sugar gummies.
UNREAL: Provides dye-free chocolate-covered candies using colors from ingredients like beet and cabbage juice.
Hi-Chews: Many flavors are made without artificial colors, but checking labels is advised.
Albanese True to Fruit Gummy Bears: This specific line uses natural fruit juices for coloring.
Black Forest Organic Gummy Bears: The organic version is colored with fruit and vegetable juice concentrates.
Mamba Fruit Chews: Often uses natural plant-based dyes.
ChocZero: Offers dye-free options like marshmallows and fruit chews colored with plant-based dyes.
Trader Joe's store brand: Many Trader Joe's branded candies are made without artificial dyes.

How to read ingredient labels and avoid hidden dyes

Checking the ingredient list is crucial to confirm a candy is Red Dye 40-free.

Look for: FD&C Red No. 40, Red 40, Allura Red AC, or E129.
Seek out: Phrases like "No Artificial Dyes" or natural sources such as beet juice, fruit juice, paprika, or beta-carotene.

Comparing popular candies: Conventional vs. Dye-Free

This table highlights the differences in coloring agents between conventional and dye-free candies.


Candy Type	Conventional (often contains Red 40)	Dye-Free Alternative (Natural Colors)
Gummy Bears	Haribo Goldbears (often contains Red 40 depending on version)	YumEarth Organic Gummy Fruits, Albanese True to Fruit Gummy Bears
Fruit Chews	Starburst (original)	Mamba Fruit Chews, Hi-Chews
Chocolate Candies	M&M's (most varieties)	UNREAL Chocolate Gems, Trader Joe's chocolate candies
Hard Candies	Conventional assorted lollipops	YumEarth Organic Pops
Sour Candies	Sour Patch Kids	SmartSweets Sour Gummies
Fruit Snacks	Betty Crocker Fruit Snacks	Annie's Organic Fruit Snacks

Making your own dye-free candy at home

Making candy at home allows for complete control over ingredients. Natural food colorings can be made using common items:

Red/Pink: Beetroot juice or powder.
Red-Orange: Paprika extract.
Vibrant Red: Reduced berry juice.
Strong Red: Carmine (from cochineal insects, non-vegan).

Conclusion: Finding the right balance

Choosing candies without Red Dye 40 is a way to reduce artificial additive intake. With the growing availability of dye-free options and the ease of making your own, it's simpler than ever to enjoy treats while making mindful choices. Always read ingredient labels to identify synthetic dyes and support brands using natural colorants.

For more detailed information on Red Dye 40, including health concerns and regulatory status, consult the health resources available from Drugs.com: Is Red Dye 40 Bad for You? Here's What the Science Says.

Frequently Asked Questions

Red Dye 40, also known as Allura Red AC, is a synthetic red color additive derived from petroleum that is widely used in foods, beverages, and other products.

Popular candies without Red Dye 40 include YumEarth Organic Pops and Giggles, SmartSweets gummies, UNREAL chocolate candies, Hi-Chews (most flavors), and Albanese True to Fruit Gummy Bears.

Most certified organic candies and snacks are free of synthetic dyes like Red Dye 40. They typically rely on plant-based extracts for coloring.

To check for Red Dye 40, read the ingredients list on the packaging. Look for the names FD&C Red No. 40, Allura Red AC, or the European code E129.

While the FDA considers it safe for most, some studies suggest links between Red Dye 40 and allergic reactions, headaches, and worsened hyperactivity in sensitive children.

Dye-free candies use natural alternatives like beet juice, paprika extract, fruit juice concentrates, and other vegetable-based colorants.

Red Dye 40 is not banned in the US, but products containing it in the European Union must carry a warning label. Some countries like Norway and Iceland have banned it entirely.