The Shift from Carmine to Red 40
For centuries, a vibrant red dye called carmine was a popular choice for coloring foods and cosmetics. Before Mars, Inc. changed the recipe, Skittles also used carmine to get its distinct red shade. The source of carmine, though, is not widely known outside of food manufacturing circles: it's derived from the crushed bodies of female cochineal insects. This insect-based colorant was highly prized for its brilliant, stable red hue that was resistant to heat and light.
Around 2015, Skittles underwent a significant reformulation to remove animal-derived ingredients, including carmine, which is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans. The new red dye was replaced with Red 40 (also known as Allura Red AC), a synthetic food color derived from petroleum. This shift was a response to evolving consumer preferences and a move towards creating a more inclusive product line. However, the change from a 'natural' insect-derived color to a synthetic petroleum-based one raised different questions for health-conscious consumers.
The Composition of Red 40
Red 40 is a synthetic azo dye and is one of the most commonly used food colorants in the United States. It is made in a laboratory and provides an intense, uniform, and long-lasting red color that is very stable in various food applications.
- It is a water-soluble powder, often combined with aluminum to create Red 40 Lake, a non-water-soluble version that prevents color bleeding in products like Skittles.
- The manufacturing process involves complex chemical reactions starting from petroleum raw materials.
- Every batch is screened by regulatory bodies like the FDA for purity and to ensure it meets safety standards before being certified for food use.
Carmine vs. Red 40: A Comparison
To better understand the change in Skittles' red dye, let's compare the characteristics of carmine and Red 40.
| Feature | Carmine (Old Skittles Dye) | Red 40 (Current Skittles Dye) |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Female cochineal insects, harvested primarily in Peru. | Petroleum distillates, synthesized in a lab. |
| Stability | Highly stable against heat and light, but processing can be complex. | Very stable, providing a consistent and long-lasting color. |
| Vegan Status | Not vegan, as it is an animal byproduct. | Vegan-friendly, as it is a synthetic, non-animal ingredient. |
| Regulatory Requirements | Required to be explicitly labeled as 'carmine' or 'cochineal extract' due to potential allergic reactions. | Required to be listed by name ('Red 40' or 'Allura Red') on ingredient labels. |
| Allergen Risk | Can cause allergic reactions in some people. | Some people experience allergy-like sensitivities or side effects. |
| Vibrancy | Creates a deep, natural crimson red. | Creates a vibrant, intense red that is easier to standardize. |
The Health and Ethical Debate Surrounding Food Dyes
The conversation around food dyes, particularly Red 40, is complex. While regulatory bodies like the FDA certify Red 40 as safe for consumption, some consumers and advocacy groups have expressed concerns. Some studies, particularly in children, have suggested a link between certain artificial dyes (including Red 40) and hyperactivity or behavioral issues, though results have been inconsistent and not definitively proven in human studies.
This debate underscores a broader philosophical difference in the food industry. Manufacturers often prefer synthetic dyes like Red 40 for their cost-effectiveness, consistency, and stability. However, there is a growing consumer demand for 'clean label' products that use natural alternatives derived from sources like beets, tomatoes, or spirulina. Natural colors can be more sensitive to heat and light, making them more challenging for mass-produced products.
Conclusion
Today's red Skittles dye is made of Red 40, a synthetic dye created from petroleum-based sources, and no longer contains the insect-derived carmine of the past. This change, made to ensure the product is vegan-friendly and meets evolving consumer expectations, has shifted the discussion from the use of animal byproducts to the use of artificial, lab-made ingredients. While regulatory agencies approve Red 40 as safe, its use continues to fuel debate among consumers who prefer natural food additives. Understanding what is in our food allows for more informed choices about the products we consume.
