The Modern Red M&M: Red 40 and Carmine
For consumers in the United States, the vibrant red color of an M&M is created using a synthetic, petroleum-derived substance known as FD&C Red No. 40, or Allura Red AC. This is one of the most common artificial food colorings used in the US today and has been approved by the FDA, although not without ongoing debate and some consumer concern.
In other parts of the world, particularly in Europe, the red color may come from a different source: carmine. This is a natural red dye extracted from the dried bodies of the female cochineal insect, which live on prickly pear cacti. Carmine is also known as cochineal extract or Natural Red 4, and is identified as E120 in Europe. The use of a natural, insect-derived dye can raise dietary concerns for vegetarians, vegans, or those with specific religious food laws like kosher and halal. The FDA also requires carmine to be explicitly labeled as such to inform consumers of the insect origin due to potential allergic reactions.
The Great Red M&M Scare of the 1970s
The history of the red M&M includes a curious hiatus that illustrates the public's concern over artificial food coloring. In 1976, Mars temporarily discontinued red M&M's in response to widespread public fear surrounding FD&C Red No. 2 (amaranth), which had been banned by the FDA due to a potential (though disputed) link to cancer. Notably, M&M's never actually contained Red No. 2; the red candy was colored with Red No. 40. However, the company removed the color simply to avoid any consumer confusion and apprehension. After a decade-long absence, the red M&M was reintroduced in 1987.
Synthetic Red 40: Benefits and Controversies
Red 40 is prized by food manufacturers for its stability and vibrant hue. However, its use is not without controversy:
- Health Concerns: Some research suggests a possible link between artificial food dyes, including Red 40, and behavioral changes, especially hyperactivity in children with ADHD. While regulatory bodies like the FDA maintain it is safe, some studies and advocacy groups raise concerns.
- Allergic Reactions: Though rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Red 40, manifesting as hives, itching, or swelling.
- European Regulations: The European Union requires a warning label on products containing Red 40, stating it 'may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children'. This has led some manufacturers to reformulate products for the European market.
Natural Carmine: Origin and Allergic Potential
For those who consume red M&M's colored with carmine, the source is far from artificial:
- Insect Origin: The dye is derived from the crushed bodies of female cochineal insects that live on cacti, a fact that is off-putting to some consumers.
- Allergen Concerns: Some sensitive individuals can suffer allergic reactions to carmine, with symptoms ranging from urticaria and angioedema to, in rare cases, anaphylactic shock. This potential for allergic response is why the FDA requires specific labeling.
- Stability: Carmine is known for its excellent stability against heat and light, making it a reliable natural coloring agent.
Natural Alternatives and Dietary Implications
For those who wish to avoid both artificial dyes and insect-derived colorants, other natural red alternatives exist, though they are not used in M&M's. These options, often derived from plants, offer a glimpse into cleaner food labeling and ingredient sourcing:
- Beetroot Red: Derived from beets, this provides a deep red color but can be sensitive to heat.
- Anthocyanins: These pigments are found in berries (like blueberries and elderberries) and purple carrots, offering shades of red, purple, and blue.
- Paprika Oleoresin: An extract from paprika peppers that gives a red-orange hue.
Comparison of Common Red Food Colorings
| Feature | Red 40 (Artificial) | Carmine (Natural) | Beetroot Red (Natural) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Origin | Petroleum distillates/coal tar | Female cochineal insects on cacti | Beetroot vegetable |
| Stability | High stability to heat and light | Excellent stability to heat and light | Moderate stability; can fade with heat |
| Health Concerns | Linked to hyperactivity in some children; potential allergies | Possible severe allergic reactions in some individuals | Generally considered very safe |
| Dietary Suitability | Unsuitable for some diets (e.g., those avoiding synthetic dyes) | Unsuitable for vegans, vegetarians, some religious diets | Suitable for most diets, including vegan |
| Labeling | Labeled as "Red 40" or "FD&C Red No. 40" | Labeled as "carmine" or "cochineal extract" | Labeled as "beet juice" or "beetroot red" |
Conclusion: A Colorful and Complex Story
The answer to what makes M&M's red is not a simple one, varying by geography and dietary preference. The red M&M serves as a perfect, candy-coated example of the complexities and consumer-driven evolution of food ingredients. The shift from a synthetic dye to accommodate consumer concerns and the use of insect-derived colorants for stability and regulatory compliance illustrate how our dietary choices are influenced by both science and public perception. For consumers prioritizing clean labels and specific dietary needs, understanding the source of these vibrant colors is key to making informed nutritional decisions. The Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) provides a helpful guide for those interested in learning more about the safety and sources of food color additives.
