What is Red 40?
Red 40, scientifically known as Allura Red AC, is a synthetic food dye derived from petroleum. It was first approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1971 and is one of the nine certified color additives deemed safe for human consumption in the United States, though not without controversy. The dye provides a vibrant reddish-orange hue, which is more stable and less expensive to produce than natural alternatives. Its cost-effectiveness and bright, uniform color have made it a ubiquitous additive in thousands of foods, beverages, cosmetics, and medications.
How does Red 40 impact nutrition?
From a nutritional standpoint, Red 40 offers no health benefits. It is a purely aesthetic additive, intended to make food more visually appealing and help identify certain flavors, such as cherry or strawberry. For individuals on a diet focused on whole, unprocessed foods, avoiding Red 40 often aligns with broader dietary goals, as it is primarily found in ultra-processed products high in added sugars, fats, and sodium.
What candy has Red 40 in it?
For consumers looking to avoid this additive, reading ingredient labels is essential. The dye may be listed as "Red 40," "FD&C Red No. 40," or "Allura Red AC". Many popular candies contain Red 40 to achieve their signature vibrant colors. Examples include:
- Skittles: Red and purple Skittles commonly contain Red 40, along with other artificial colors like Yellow 6.
- Starburst: All Starburst flavors, even white ones, may contain Red 40.
- M&M's: The red and brown variations of M&M's utilize Red 40.
- Jolly Rancher: Certain red and pink flavors of Jolly Rancher hard candies contain the dye.
- Gummy Bears and Fruit Snacks: Many brands of gummy candies and fruit snacks use Red 40 for their assorted colors.
- Twizzlers: The classic red Twizzlers and similar licorice-style candies often include Red 40.
Beyond candy: Other products with Red 40
The presence of Red 40 extends far beyond the candy aisle. It is found in a wide variety of food and drink products, which is important for a holistic approach to nutrition.
- Beverages: Sodas (like Code Red Mountain Dew), sports drinks, fruit juices with added sugars, and certain energy drinks are common sources.
- Cereals: Many brightly colored breakfast cereals popular with children, such as Fruity Pebbles and Trix, contain Red 40.
- Baked Goods: Cake mixes, frostings, pastries, and some cookies frequently use Red 40 for coloring.
- Dairy Products: Flavored yogurts, ice cream, and popsicles often contain this dye.
- Snack Foods: Surprisingly, Red 40 can also be found in savory snacks like Nacho Cheese Doritos and flavored crackers.
The controversy surrounding Red 40
The debate over the safety of Red 40 and other artificial food dyes is ongoing. While the FDA considers it safe at approved levels, some studies and consumer advocacy groups have raised significant concerns. The key points of controversy include:
- Hyperactivity in Children: A 2007 study linked a mix of food dyes, including Allura Red AC, to increased hyperactivity in children. A 2021 report from the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment also concluded that synthetic food dyes are associated with adverse neurobehavioral effects.
- Allergic Reactions: Although rare, some individuals, including both children and adults, have reported allergic reactions such as hives, swelling, and asthma-like symptoms in response to Red 40.
- Gut Health and Inflammation: Recent animal studies have suggested a link between Red 40 consumption and potential gut health issues. For example, a 2023 study in mice found that chronic exposure to the dye harmed gut health, caused inflammation, and altered the microbiome.
- Carcinogenic Contaminants: Some analyses have found that Red 40 can contain trace amounts of known carcinogens, though levels are considered low by regulatory standards.
Navigating the ingredient list
To make informed dietary choices, reading the ingredient list is crucial. As Red 40 can be listed under several names, knowing what to look for is key. The dye is not only in red-colored foods but can be used in combination with other colors to create purple, brown, or even orange products. The rise of consumer demand for clean labels has prompted some manufacturers to move towards natural alternatives. This has led to an increase in dye-free product options, though you should still verify ingredients for yourself.
Comparison of Red 40 and natural colorants
| Feature | Red 40 (Allura Red AC) | Natural Colorants (Beetroot, Carmine) |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Petroleum distillates | Plants (beets, purple carrots), Insects (cochineal) |
| Color Intensity | Highly vibrant and consistent | Can vary based on concentration and other ingredients |
| Cost | Generally low | Typically higher |
| Nutritional Value | None | May offer trace nutrients and antioxidants |
| Stability | Excellent stability to light, heat, and pH | Can be sensitive to light, heat, and pH |
| Health Controversies | Linked to hyperactivity, allergic reactions, gut inflammation | Potential allergic reactions with some (e.g., carmine) |
Natural alternatives to artificial dyes
If you're seeking to avoid artificial colors, a number of natural and plant-based options exist. These alternatives can be used at home for coloring baked goods or found in products from brands committed to clean ingredients.
- Beetroot Juice/Powder: Provides a range of pink to red hues. Some food manufacturers, like those for Popsicle brand fruit pops, use beet juice for color.
- Purple Sweet Potato Extract: Offers rich, vibrant red and purple tones.
- Fruit and Vegetable Extracts: Concentrated extracts from raspberries, cranberries, and red cabbage can be used to achieve red and pink colors.
- Paprika Oleoresin: Derived from paprika, this can give a reddish-orange color.
- Carmine: A red pigment derived from cochineal insects. While natural, it is an allergen for some and unsuitable for vegans and vegetarians.
Conclusion: Making informed choices
Understanding what candy has Red 40 in it is just one piece of a larger nutritional puzzle. By educating themselves on food additives like Red 40, consumers can make more informed decisions about the processed foods they choose. While regulatory bodies deem Red 40 safe at current levels, the growing body of research highlighting potential concerns, particularly for sensitive individuals and children, encourages a more cautious approach. Opting for natural, dye-free products, when possible, aligns with a healthier, less-processed diet and avoids the unnecessary aesthetic addition of synthetic colors. The best strategy is to become a diligent label reader, supporting brands that prioritize transparent, whole-food ingredients.
Visit the FDA's website for more information on approved color additives.
