Why Is Red Dye 40 Used in Candy?
Red Dye 40, also known as Allura Red AC, is a synthetic color additive that food manufacturers use for several reasons. Firstly, it provides a vibrant, consistent red color that is visually appealing and helps signal specific flavors, such as cherry or strawberry. Because it is a petroleum-based dye, it is also highly stable, inexpensive to produce, and has a longer shelf life compared to natural colorants derived from sources like beets or berries. This allows manufacturers to create a wide variety of colorful products at a lower cost.
Common Candy Examples Containing Red Dye 40
If you're wondering what candy has red dye 40, the list is extensive, covering many popular items found on grocery store shelves. While not exhaustive, here are some widely known candies that have historically used this dye:
- Skittles: The red and purple candies in the original mix contain Red 40.
- M&M's: The red and brown colored candies in some varieties contain Red 40.
- Starburst: The red and pink flavors in many Starburst packs use Red 40.
- Jolly Ranchers: Many of the red and pink flavors include this dye.
- Swedish Fish: The iconic red gummy fish are colored with Red 40.
- Some Gummy Candies: Many generic or branded gummies, particularly red, orange, or purple varieties, list Red 40 on their ingredients.
- Nerds: Certain flavors of this tiny candy can contain Red 40.
- Tootsie Pops/Tootsie Rolls: Some flavored varieties, including cherry, may use Red 40.
It's important to remember that manufacturers can change their ingredients, so the only surefire way to know is to read the ingredient label on the packaging. The list might also contain phrases like "Red 40 Lake," "Allura Red AC," or the European designation "E129".
How to Identify Red Dye 40 on Labels
Identifying Red Dye 40 requires a careful reading of the ingredient list on candy packaging. Manufacturers are required to list all ingredients by weight, and artificial colorings are often found at or near the end of the list. Be aware of the alternative names for this dye. For instance, the phrase "Allura Red" might sound like a natural ingredient, but it is another name for the same petroleum-derived color additive.
Here are the names to look for:
- FD&C Red No. 40
- Red 40
- Red 40 Lake (the aluminum lake version of the dye)
- Allura Red AC
- CI Food Red 17
- E129
Comparing Candies with and without Red Dye 40
For consumers looking to avoid Red Dye 40, there are plenty of options available. Many brands are moving towards using natural colorings or offering dye-free versions of popular sweets. The following table highlights the difference between traditional candies and some of their dye-free alternatives.
| Feature | Traditional Candies (Containing Red 40) | Dye-Free Alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| Color Source | Synthetic, petroleum-derived Red Dye 40 (Allura Red AC) and other artificial colors | Natural extracts from fruits, vegetables, and other plants like beet juice, paprika, annatto, or spirulina |
| Vibrancy | Often very bright, bold, and consistent neon-like colors | Tend to have more muted, earthy tones; colors may vary slightly between batches |
| Availability | Extremely common and found in most grocery and convenience stores | Available at health food stores, specialty candy shops, or online from brands specializing in natural products |
| Flavoring | Often uses artificial flavorings in addition to artificial colors | Typically uses natural flavorings derived from fruits and other natural sources |
| Examples | Skittles, Starburst, some M&Ms, Jolly Ranchers, Swedish Fish | YumEarth Organic Gummy Bears, Unreal Dark Chocolate Gems, Annie's Fruit Snacks, Black Forest Gummy Bears |
Why Do Some People Avoid Red Dye 40?
Though approved for use by the FDA, Red Dye 40 is a source of concern for some consumers, leading them to seek out dye-free alternatives. Research has suggested a potential link between synthetic food dyes, including Red 40, and behavioral issues in children, such as hyperactivity and worsened ADHD symptoms, though studies are not entirely conclusive. In Europe, products containing Red 40 and other azo dyes must carry a warning label stating the dye “may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children”.
Additionally, some individuals may experience allergic reactions, such as hives, swelling, or asthma, to food additives like Red 40. Concerns have also been raised regarding contaminants like benzidine found in some dye batches and the potential for low-grade inflammation, though long-term human studies are limited. For families with sensitivities or simply those who prefer to reduce their consumption of artificial ingredients, reading labels is the best course of action.
Making Healthier Candy Choices
For those who want to avoid candies with Red Dye 40, it's easier than ever to find natural alternatives. The increasing consumer demand for clean-label products has prompted many companies to switch to fruit and vegetable juices for coloring. Brands like YumEarth, Black Forest, and Unreal specialize in naturally colored treats. When shopping, always read the ingredient list, even for products that seem like a safe bet. Sometimes, the same candy can have different formulations in different regions. Being a proactive consumer and understanding label language is the most reliable way to ensure you know what's in your food.
For more information on the safety of food additives and specific regulations, resources like the FDA website can be helpful. For example, the FDA provides extensive documentation on color additives on its website.
Conclusion
Navigating the candy aisle for products free of artificial dyes like Red 40 can seem challenging, but it's entirely possible with a bit of knowledge. By understanding which candies commonly contain this synthetic coloring, learning how to decipher ingredient labels, and exploring the growing number of dye-free alternatives, consumers can make informed choices for themselves and their families. While regulatory bodies like the FDA consider Red Dye 40 safe, concerns regarding potential side effects on behavior and gut health have prompted many to seek out naturally colored options. Checking labels remains the most reliable method for anyone looking to limit or eliminate their intake of this common food additive.
