Tag: E129

According to the International Association of Color Manufacturers, Allura Red AC (E129) is a monoazo dye derived from petroleum. This synthetic origin confirms that the substance widely known as color 129 is indeed artificial. The food additive is extensively used across many industries to impart a vibrant red hue.

According to regulatory bodies and food science experts, the synthetic azo dye known as Allura Red AC is, in fact, the same substance as FD&C Red No. 40, commonly called Red 40. The confusing array of names for this single ingredient is a major point of consumer interest and debate.

A widespread misconception suggests Allura Red, or E129, is banned in the UK, yet it remains on the approved list of food colorings. While permitted, its use is heavily regulated, requiring a specific warning label on product packaging, a policy shaped by significant research into its health effects on children.

There is no single code for red dye; instead, various codes identify different red food colorings depending on their composition and country of regulation. The most prominent codes consumers encounter include FD&C Red No. 40 in the United States and the European E-number system, which distinguishes between synthetic and natural colorants.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Allura Red AC is one of nine certified color additives approved for use in foods and beverages. A common question that arises is, "Is Red Dye 40 and Allura Red the same thing?" The short answer is yes; they are indeed the same synthetic food coloring, just identified by different names.

In the European Union, products containing the food dye Allura Red (E129 or Red 40) must carry a specific warning about its potential link to hyperactivity in children. This labeling requirement emerged following significant research into the synthetic colorant's health implications.

In Canada and the United States, Red 40 is a common food colouring, but recent reports in early 2025 indicated that while the US is re-evaluating certain dyes, Canada's approach remains different. The specific name for this dye on Canadian ingredient labels is a frequent source of consumer confusion.

Over 8% of children with ADHD may have symptoms related to synthetic food colors, which has spurred greater scrutiny of ingredients across the globe. For health-conscious consumers, this leads to the important question: does French ketchup have Red 40? The answer is almost certainly no, and the explanation reveals a significant divergence between European and American food industries.

According to Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations, Red 40 is a certified color additive approved for use in foods and beverages, but its origin is often misunderstood by those following a vegetarian diet. This article clarifies why this common synthetic dye is suitable for most vegetarians.

Over 65% of commercially produced dyes globally belong to the azo dye class, which includes the food coloring E129. The source of E129, also known as Allura Red AC or Red 40, is entirely synthetic, derived primarily from petroleum and coal tar byproducts. This article explores its chemical origin and manufacturing process, clarifying common misconceptions.