Common Chips Containing Red 40
Many consumers are surprised to find that several popular chip varieties contain the artificial food dye Red 40, also known as Allura Red AC or FD&C Red No. 40. This additive is used to create vibrant red, orange, and sometimes cheesy colors that appear more appealing. The inclusion of this dye is most common in spicy, nacho, or certain cheese-flavored products. However, some seemingly harmless snacks also use it. Below is a list of some of the most prominent chip brands and flavors that have been known to contain Red 40.
Frito-Lay Products
Frito-Lay, a division of PepsiCo, produces a wide variety of chips, and many of their most colorful products contain Red 40. It's crucial to check the ingredient list on any Frito-Lay product, as formulations can change, but the following are common culprits:
- Doritos Nacho Cheese and Spicy Nacho: These popular tortilla chips get their distinctive orange-red hue from a combination of artificial colorings, including Red 40, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6.
- Flamin' Hot Cheetos and other 'Flamin' Hot' products: The iconic fiery red color of these snacks is a direct result of Red 40. This applies to a wide range of 'Flamin' Hot' variations, including Cheetos, Doritos, and Funyuns.
- Ritz Toasted Chips (some veggie flavors): Some versions, especially those with vegetable flavors, have been noted to contain Red 40, leading to surprise from parents seeking healthier options for their children.
- Some Tostitos varieties: While many Tostitos are dye-free, some seasoned products, particularly those with a reddish tint, have historically contained Red 40.
Other Chip Brands and Spicy Snacks
Beyond Frito-Lay, other brands also utilize Red 40 to enhance their products' visual appeal. If you're looking to avoid this dye, it's a good practice to be extra vigilant with any snack that boasts a bright or spicy color.
- Pringles (certain flavors): The Hot Ones Los Calientes Rojo flavor explicitly lists 'RED 40 LAKE' in its ingredients.
- Hot & Spicy snacks: Many other brands of hot or spicy-flavored chips and puffed snacks on the market use Red 40 to enhance the perception of heat, even if the flavor is derived from natural spices like paprika.
Reading Labels: How to Find Red 40
Identifying Red 40 on a product label is a simple but essential step. The dye can be listed under a few different names, so knowing what to look for is key. The ingredient list is typically found on the back of the packaging, and you should scan for any of the following terms:
- FD&C Red No. 40
- Red 40
- Allura Red AC
- Red 40 Lake (This is a form of the dye that is less soluble in liquids)
- C.I. 16035
Comparison: Red 40 vs. Dye-Free Chips
To make an informed decision, it's helpful to compare chips that contain Red 40 with popular alternatives that are formulated without artificial dyes. These dye-free options often rely on natural colorants derived from plants, though they may have a slightly different color profile.
| Feature | Chips with Red 40 (e.g., Flamin' Hot Cheetos) | Dye-Free Chips (e.g., Quest Chips) |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Bright, vibrant, and uniform artificial red/orange color | Muted, more natural color, often from spices like turmeric or paprika |
| Ingredients | Includes "Red 40" or "Red 40 Lake" in the ingredient list | Uses natural ingredients like turmeric, paprika, or carob powder for color |
| Health Concerns | Associated with hyperactivity in some children and other potential health issues | Generally considered safer, without the health associations of synthetic dyes |
| Flavor Profile | Often intensely flavored and processed | Flavor can be similar but sometimes has a more natural, less intense profile |
| Availability | Widely available in most grocery stores | Sometimes found in the natural food aisle or specialty stores |
The Shift Toward Natural Alternatives
In recent years, many major food companies have faced consumer pressure to remove artificial food dyes like Red 40. In response, some have started reformulating their products to use natural colorants. For example, PepsiCo has committed to replacing artificial dyes in some of its products with natural colors like paprika and turmeric. This shift is good news for consumers seeking dye-free alternatives, but it makes label reading even more important as product formulas evolve.
What to Consider When Choosing Chips
Beyond just checking for Red 40, there are several other factors to consider when purchasing chips. These considerations can help you make a more holistic decision about your snacking habits.
- Always check the ingredient list: Product names and packaging can be misleading. A flavor that sounds like it should be dye-free could still contain Red 40. The ingredient list is the only reliable source of information.
- Look for 'Simply' or 'Organic' versions: Many brands, including Frito-Lay, offer 'Simply' or organic product lines that specifically use natural ingredients for coloring.
- Be aware of cross-contamination: While some products may be dye-free, they may be manufactured in facilities that also handle products with Red 40. This is less of a concern for most people but can be an issue for those with extreme sensitivities.
- Consider specialty grocery stores: Stores like Whole Foods or Trader Joe's are known for carrying products that do not contain artificial dyes, making them a safe bet for finding dye-free chips.
- Explore other natural snack options: Beyond just chips, many companies are creating innovative dye-free snack alternatives using ingredients like beets, carrots, and sweet potatoes for natural color.
Conclusion
While Red 40 is a common ingredient in many popular chip varieties like Doritos and Flamin' Hot Cheetos, a quick glance at the product label can help you identify its presence. With growing consumer demand for cleaner ingredients, many companies are reformulating their products, and dye-free alternatives are becoming more widely available. By learning to read ingredient labels and being aware of the common culprits, you can confidently choose snacks that align with your dietary preferences.
More Resources for Your Health
To better understand food additives and their effects, consider consulting resources from reputable health and nutrition organizations. For example, you can visit the Center for Science in the Public Interest for additional information on food dyes and other ingredients.
Common Chips with Red 40
Flamin' Hot Cheetos: The iconic red color of these and other 'Flamin' Hot' products is derived from Red 40.
Doritos Nacho Cheese: This classic snack uses a combination of dyes, including Red 40, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6, to achieve its vibrant orange hue.
Pringles Los Calientes Rojo: The ingredient list for this spicy Pringles flavor explicitly includes "RED 40 LAKE".
Ritz Toasted Chips (some flavors): Certain flavors, particularly those with a vegetable base, may contain Red 40, so it is important to check the label.
Certain store-brand snacks: Many generic or store-brand versions of spicy or cheesy chips also use Red 40, following the example of their name-brand counterparts.
Alternatives to Chips with Red 40
Quest Chips: These are colored with turmeric and are a great alternative for those avoiding artificial dyes.
Trader Joe's Rolled Chile Lime Chips: This product is known to be a popular dye-free alternative to Takis, which often contain artificial colors.
'Simply' and 'Organic' Snacks: Many brands like Frito-Lay offer product lines, such as 'Simply' chips, that do not contain artificial colors.
