What is Red 40 and Why is it Used?
FD&C Red No. 40, also known as Allura Red AC or E129 in Europe, is a synthetic food dye derived from petroleum. It is one of the most widely used certified color additives in the United States, replacing older dyes like Red 2 and Red 3 in many products. The primary purpose of Red 40 is to enhance the visual appeal of food and drinks, making them more vibrant and consistent in color. This is particularly common in highly processed foods marketed to children, where bright colors can be a major selling point.
While the FDA certifies and approves the use of Red 40 in food and beverages, its safety remains a subject of debate. Health advocates and some studies have linked the dye to health concerns, particularly hyperactivity and other neurobehavioral issues in some sensitive children. This has led to restrictions in other regions, with Europe requiring a warning label on products containing the dye. Consequently, many consumers, especially those following specific dietary plans, are seeking to identify and avoid products that contain Red 40.
Brands That Use Red 40 in Common Food Categories
Red 40 is hidden in an extensive array of everyday products. The key to avoiding it is learning to read ingredient labels and identifying which categories are most likely to contain it. Here is a breakdown of brands and products often found to contain this dye:
Beverages
- Soft Drinks: Fanta and Mountain Dew Code Red are well-known examples, but many other fruit-flavored sodas and generic powdered drink mixes also use it.
- Sports Drinks: Popular sports drinks like Gatorade's Fruit Punch flavor are frequently cited for their use of Red 40.
- Fruit Juices: Despite seeming healthy, some fruit juice blends, like certain Hawaiian Punch flavors, contain Red 40.
- Milk and Flavored Drinks: Strawberry-flavored milks from various brands, including Borden, often contain Red 40 to enhance their pink hue.
Candies and Sweets
- Chewy Candies: Brands like Skittles, M&M's (specifically the red ones), and Starburst (red flavors) are known to use Red 40.
- Gummy Snacks: Many fruit-flavored gummy snacks and fruit roll-ups, such as those from Fruit Roll-Ups, use the dye to achieve their vibrant colors.
- Other Candy: Swedish Fish, Wild Cherry Lifesavers, and certain peppermint candies by brands like Ferrara Candy Company (which also owns Nerds) often include Red 40.
Cereals and Breakfast Items
- Breakfast Cereals: Many brightly colored cereals marketed to children, such as General Mills' Lucky Charms and Kellogg's Froot Loops, use Red 40. Kellogg's Pop-Tarts also come in flavors with the dye.
- Pastries and Frosting: Brands like Pillsbury for Funfetti frosting and Betty Crocker for some sprinkles and cake mixes are known to use Red 40.
Snacks and Savory Foods
- Flavored Chips: Certain flavored potato chips and corn chips, like Nacho Cheese Doritos, contain Red 40. Pringles Crisps Scorchin' Chili & Lime also include the dye.
- Dressings and Condiments: Surprise products can contain the dye, such as some Catalina or barbecue sauces, to achieve a specific color.
Dairy Products and Desserts
- Yogurts and Puddings: Fruit-flavored yogurts, such as some Yoplait Strawberry varieties, and various pudding mixes often contain Red 40.
- Ice Cream and Frozen Desserts: Certain ice creams, like Breyers' M&M's Minis Caramel Fudge, utilize Red 40 for colorful components.
- Gelatins: Both branded (like Jell-O) and generic gelatin desserts are common sources of Red 40.
Reading Labels to Identify Red 40
Since Red 40 can appear in many unexpected products, the best defense is to become a savvy label-reader. The ingredient list is where you will find the truth. Look for these specific terms to confirm the presence of the synthetic dye:
- FD&C Red No. 40
- Red 40
- Red 40 Lake (a non-water-soluble form of the dye often used in gums and coatings)
- Allura Red AC (the European name for the dye)
It is important to remember that even white-colored foods may have synthetic dyes added to make them appear brighter or more appealing. The color alone is not a reliable indicator.
Comparison of Products with Red 40 vs. Natural Alternatives
Many brands now offer dye-free versions of their products or use natural colorants derived from fruits and vegetables. Here is a comparison to help guide your purchasing decisions:
| Product Category | Common Brand with Red 40 | Natural Alternative Brand/Option |
|---|---|---|
| Candy | Skittles | YumEarth or Unreal candies |
| Breakfast Cereal | Froot Loops | Fruity Cheerios (some varieties are dye-free) or Cascadian Farm Fruitful O's |
| Fruit Snacks | Fruit Roll-Ups | Mott's or Annie's organic fruit snacks |
| Red Soda | Mountain Dew Code Red | Sparkling water with natural fruit juice |
| Yogurt | Yoplait Strawberry Yogurt | Organic Valley or Stonyfield organic yogurt |
| Gelatin Dessert | Jell-O (strawberry flavor) | Homemade gelatin using natural ingredients or Simply Delish Jel Dessert |
| Snacks | Nacho Cheese Doritos | Tortilla chips with homemade salsa or organic alternative brands |
The Shift Toward Natural Colors
In response to growing consumer demand and regulatory pressures (such as the ban in California schools), some food brands are shifting away from synthetic dyes like Red 40 towards natural alternatives. These alternatives are often sourced from fruits, vegetables, and other plant-based ingredients, such as beet juice, carrot juice, and paprika.
This movement indicates that a conscious effort to find and support brands using natural colorants can influence the broader food industry. Choosing products with natural colorings aligns with a nutrition diet focused on minimizing processed ingredients and maximizing whole, natural foods.
Conclusion: Your Role in Choosing a Better Diet
Identifying what food brands use Red 40? empowers you to take control of your dietary choices. By scrutinizing ingredient lists and actively seeking out alternatives, you can significantly reduce your family's exposure to synthetic food colorants. While Red 40 is widely used and approved by regulatory bodies, the decision to consume it ultimately rests with you. Prioritizing whole foods and supporting brands that use natural ingredients promotes a healthier, more transparent food system for everyone.
For more information on Red 40 and other food additives, consider consulting resources like the Environmental Working Group (EWG) or the Cleveland Clinic.
How to Find Alternatives to Red 40
To find dye-free foods, start by reading ingredient lists carefully and opting for certified organic products, which typically avoid synthetic dyes. Many brands explicitly advertise using natural colorings from fruits and vegetables. If you find a product you like that contains Red 40, check if the same brand or a competitor offers a dye-free version.
Navigating the Grocery Store for Red 40-Free Options
Shopping for Red 40-free items is a habit that improves with practice. Focus on the perimeter of the grocery store, where fresh produce, meats, and dairy are found. When buying packaged goods, prioritize brands that carry an organic certification. Be aware that color is not a reliable indicator; even products that appear white or beige can contain synthetic dyes. When in doubt, read the label.
Staying Informed About Food Additives
Regulations regarding food additives can change, and consumer pressure can influence manufacturers. Stay informed by following reliable health and nutrition resources, consumer advocacy groups, and paying attention to news regarding food safety. This will ensure you are always equipped with the latest information to make the best choices for your nutrition diet.
