Understanding Red 40: What is the new name for Red 40? And why are so many people asking?

October 3, 2025 •

3 min read

Despite persistent rumors, there is no official 'new' name for Red 40. However, this widely used food coloring is known by several aliases, most commonly Allura Red AC. This article explores the various names for Red 40, the associated health concerns, and how to identify and avoid it for a healthier diet.

Quick Summary

Red 40 is an artificial, petroleum-derived food colorant with several alternate names, including Allura Red AC and E129. Concerns exist regarding its potential links to hyperactivity, allergic reactions, and gut inflammation. Consumers can make informed decisions by reading labels and exploring natural colorant options like beet juice or paprika extract.

Key Points

No New Name: Red 40 does not have a single "new" name; it is known by several aliases, including Allura Red AC, FD&C Red No. 40, and E129.
Source of Origin: It is a synthetic azo dye produced from petroleum distillates or coal tars, with no nutritional value.
Health Concerns: Potential health risks include hyperactivity in sensitive children, allergic reactions, gut inflammation, and possible contamination with trace carcinogens.
Regulatory Differences: The U.S. FDA deems Red 40 safe, while the European Union requires warning labels on products containing it.
Natural Alternatives: Healthier substitutes for artificial colorants include beet juice extract, paprika extract, and lycopene.
Labeling Awareness: Reading food labels is crucial for identifying and avoiding Red 40 and its various aliases, like Allura Red AC and E129.
Focus on Whole Foods: Prioritizing a diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods is the most reliable way to avoid synthetic food dyes.

Demystifying the Name: Unveiling Red 40's Aliases

There is a common misconception that Red 40 has been officially renamed. However, Red 40, or FD&C Red No. 40, is a synthetic dye with several designations used by manufacturers depending on the region. Its chemical name, Allura Red AC, is frequently listed on labels. Other names include C.I. Food Red 17 and E129, the latter commonly used in Europe.

The Origins of Red 40 and the Azo Dye Family

Red 40 is a synthetic azo dye produced from petroleum distillates or coal tars to create vibrant colors. It is widely used in food, beverages, and cosmetics due to its stability. Unlike natural dyes, Red 40 is a manufactured chemical with no nutritional benefit. It became popular after replacing other red dyes in U.S. products.

Where Is Red 40 Found?

Red 40 is used in many processed food products to provide a consistent color.

Beverages: Sodas, sports drinks, and flavored milks.
Sweets and Candies: Gelatins, puddings, and candy.
Snacks: Chips, cereals, and baked goods.
Condiments: Salad dressings and sauces.
Meats and Poultry: Some processed products.
Medications and Cosmetics: Syrups, tablets, lipsticks, and soaps.

Health Concerns and Regulatory Differences

The safety of Red 40 is debated among regulatory bodies, with the U.S. FDA approving its use within limits, while some countries have stricter rules or bans.

Hyperactivity: A 2007 study suggested a link between artificial food colorings, including Allura Red AC, and increased hyperactivity in children. This led the European Union to require warning labels stating the dyes "may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children". The FDA acknowledges some sensitivity in children but finds insufficient evidence for warning labels in the U.S..
Allergic Reactions: Sensitive individuals may experience allergic-like symptoms, though true allergic reactions are rare.
Potential Carcinogens: Trace amounts of carcinogens can be present from manufacturing. The FDA considers these levels safe, but some advocate for caution.
Gut Health: A 2023 mouse study suggested Red 40 could damage DNA and affect the gut microbiome, leading to inflammation. Further human research is needed.

Comparing Red 40 to Natural Alternatives

Natural alternatives offer vibrant colors without synthetic additives. The table below compares Red 40 with some common natural options.


Feature	Red 40 (Allura Red AC)	Beet Juice Extract	Paprika Extract	Lycopene
Origin	Synthetic, derived from petroleum	Natural, from beets	Natural, from paprika peppers	Natural, from tomatoes/red fruits
Color	Intense, consistent red	Vibrant reddish-pink	Warm reddish-orange	Deep red pigment
Flavor Profile	None	Earthy	Mildly spicy, flavorful	Flavor-neutral
Stability	Highly stable	Less stable to heat and light	Stable, but can fade	Stable
Health Risks	Potential hyperactivity, allergies, inflammation	Low to none	Low to none	Rich in antioxidants
Labeling	FD&C Red No. 40, E129, Allura Red AC	Beet juice, beet powder	Paprika, paprika extract	Lycopene, tomato extract

How to Avoid Red 40 in Your Diet

Avoiding Red 40 involves reading labels for 'FD&C Red No. 40,' 'Red 40,' or aliases like 'Allura Red AC' and 'E129'. Choosing whole, unprocessed foods is the best way to avoid artificial colorants. Many brands offer products with natural colorings. Cooking at home provides control over ingredients.

Reading Labels

Conclusion: Making Informed Dietary Choices

Red 40 does not have a single "new" name, but its aliases, including Allura Red AC and E129, are important to recognize on labels. Concerns about potential links to hyperactivity, allergic reactions, and gut health have led many to seek natural alternatives. Differences in regulatory approaches between the FDA and the European Union highlight the ongoing debate. Understanding Red 40's names, risks, and natural options helps individuals make informed dietary choices for their health.

Frequently Asked Questions

There is no new name for Red 40. The dye is known by several aliases, most commonly its chemical name, Allura Red AC. Other designations include FD&C Red No. 40 in the US and E129 in Europe.

Concerns over Red 40 include potential links to hyperactivity in children, allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, possible DNA damage, and negative effects on the gut microbiome, based on some animal and human studies.

While Red 40 is not banned in the U.S., some countries, including Norway and Austria, have banned it. The European Union requires a warning label on products containing it, advising of potential adverse effects on children's behavior.

Effective natural alternatives include beet juice extract, paprika extract, lycopene (from tomatoes), annatto, hibiscus powder, and fruit and vegetable-based concentrates.

To identify Red 40, read ingredient lists carefully. Look for 'FD&C Red No. 40' or 'Red 40' on U.S. products, or its aliases like 'Allura Red AC' and 'E129' on imported goods.

Red 40 is found in a wide variety of processed foods and drinks, such as candy, cereals, sports drinks, baked goods, snacks, condiments, and some medications and cosmetics.

The link between Red 40 and cancer is under investigation. While not officially classified as a carcinogen, some studies note that it can contain trace carcinogenic contaminants and cause DNA damage in animal models. Definitive human studies are lacking.