What is Red Dye 40 and Why Avoid It?
Red Dye 40, also known as Allura Red AC, is a synthetic food coloring derived from petroleum and is one of the most widely used dyes in the United States. It is found in countless processed foods, beverages, and candies. While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved its use, some individuals choose to avoid it due to a range of concerns.
One of the most common reasons for avoiding Red Dye 40 is its potential link to hyperactivity and other neurobehavioral issues, particularly in sensitive children. Some research also suggests a possible association with allergic reactions. For these reasons, many people, especially parents and those with food sensitivities, look for candy options that use natural colorings instead.
How to Identify Red Dye 40 on Ingredient Labels
Become a savvy label reader to find out what candy does not have red dye 40. The dye can appear under several names on an ingredient list. Look for these specific terms:
- FD&C Red No. 40
- Red 40
- Allura Red AC
- E129 (commonly found on international product labels)
Always read the entire ingredient list carefully, as some products might use other artificial dyes. The best indicator of a safe product is an ingredient list that mentions natural color sources like 'beet juice concentrate,' 'annatto,' or 'paprika extract'.
Popular Candies Free of Red Dye 40
A growing number of brands are dedicated to creating delicious treats without artificial dyes. These candies often get their colors from plant-based sources, including fruits, vegetables, and spices.
Brands that use natural alternatives include:
- YumEarth: A leader in the organic candy space, YumEarth offers a wide array of dye-free products such as lollipops, fruit snacks, and gummy bears.
- Unreal: This brand specializes in chocolate candies and offers milk chocolate gems that are colored with vegetable extracts and are free of artificial dyes.
- Smart Sweets: Offering low-sugar gummy candies, Smart Sweets relies on natural fruit and vegetable juices for its colors.
- ChocZero: This company crafts sugar-free chocolates and treats, using only plant-based food colorings.
- Trader Joe's: Many of Trader Joe's store-brand candies, including their popular Scandinavian Swimmers, are naturally colored and a reliable choice for those avoiding artificial dyes.
- Black Forest Organic: Check the label for the 'Organic' version of their gummies, which are colored naturally.
- Lovely Candy Co.: Provides organic, chewy candies made with natural ingredients like fruit juice concentrates.
- Select Hi-Chew Flavors: While some Hi-Chews may contain artificial colors, certain flavors are formulated without them.
Comparison: Conventional vs. Dye-Free Candy
Choosing between conventional and dye-free candy involves considering more than just the color.
| Aspect | Conventional Candy (with Red Dye 40) | Dye-Free / Naturally Colored Candy |
|---|---|---|
| Color Source | Synthetic dyes derived from petroleum | Plant-based extracts (e.g., beet juice, turmeric) |
| Color Intensity | Often features vivid and bright, long-lasting colors | Typically has more muted, pastel, or earthy tones |
| Health Concerns | Potential links to hyperactivity, allergies, and inflammation | Generally considered a safer alternative with no synthetic dye side effects |
| Stability | Highly stable and resistant to heat and light | Can be more sensitive to light and heat, potentially causing color fading |
| Availability | Ubiquitous in most grocery stores and convenience stores | More common in health food stores, specialty shops, and online |
| Labeling | Contains chemical names like "Red 40" or "Allura Red AC" | Often explicitly labeled as "naturally colored" or "no artificial dyes" |
Tips for Avoiding Red Dye 40
- Don't Judge by Color: A candy's color isn't a reliable indicator. A non-red candy can still contain Red Dye 40, and some red candies use natural colorants. Always read the label.
- Check Certified Products: Look for official certification marks such as USDA Organic, which restricts the use of synthetic dyes. This provides a quick way to verify that the product is dye-free.
- Consider Chocolate: Most high-quality dark chocolate is a safe bet for a dye-free treat, but it's important to be cautious with cheaper brands or chocolates with colored coatings, which may include artificial dyes.
- Explore International Options: Some European or Swedish candy brands, like Sockerbit, are explicitly made without artificial dyes due to stricter regulations abroad.
- Visit Health-Focused Retailers: Stores like Whole Foods, Sprouts, or dedicated online retailers specialize in products that cater to dietary preferences, including those avoiding synthetic dyes.
Conclusion
For consumers seeking an answer to what candy does not have red dye 40, the options are more plentiful than ever before. With rising demand for healthier and cleaner ingredient lists, many brands are now offering delicious treats colored with natural alternatives derived from fruits, vegetables, and other plant sources. By learning to read ingredient labels and knowing which brands prioritize natural colors, you can confidently navigate the candy aisle and choose products that align with your dietary preferences and health goals.
