What is Red 40?
Red 40, also known as Allura Red AC or FD&C Red No. 40, is a synthetic food dye made from petroleum. It is the most common and widely used artificial red colorant in the U.S., but its bright hue often shows up in products that are orange, purple, brown, or even white. The dye was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1971, and while it remains legal for use in foods, drugs, and cosmetics, it has become a subject of ongoing debate. Concerns, particularly regarding its potential link to hyperactivity in sensitive children, have led to increased consumer scrutiny and regulatory changes in other countries and regions, including California.
Popular Products Containing Red 40
Red 40 is ubiquitous in the American food supply, often serving a purely cosmetic purpose to make products more visually appealing.
Candies and Sweets
Candies are a primary category for Red 40 use, where the dye creates vivid, eye-catching colors. Many classic treats contain this ingredient:
- Skittles: The red candies and some other colors use Red 40.
- M&M’s: The red candies are known to contain Red 40.
- Starburst: The red and pink flavors feature Red 40.
- Swedish Fish: This red gummy candy is a common source of Red 40.
- Jolly Ranchers: Many flavors, including the cherry one, list Red 40.
- Fruit Snacks: Many brands of gummy fruit snacks use Red 40 for their vibrant hues.
Beverages
From sports drinks to soda, Red 40 is frequently used to color and brand a wide variety of drinks.
- Gatorade: Flavors like Fruit Punch contain Red 40.
- Kool-Aid: Many powdered drink mixes, including cherry, use the dye.
- Mountain Dew Code Red: The specific formula gets its color from Red 40.
- Hawaiian Punch: Several varieties list Red 40 in the ingredients.
- Some Strawberry Milks: Certain brands add Red 40 to enhance the color of their flavored milk.
Cereals and Breakfast Items
Breakfast is not immune to Red 40, especially in products marketed to children.
- Froot Loops: Despite their fruity name, the vibrant colors in this cereal come from artificial dyes, including Red 40.
- Lucky Charms: This cereal's colorful marshmallows contain Red 40.
- Pop-Tarts: Various frosted and fruit-flavored varieties, such as Frosted Strawberry, contain Red 40.
Snacks and Desserts
Beyond the obvious red items, Red 40 can be found in a variety of other processed foods.
- Nacho Cheese Doritos: The iconic orange color includes Red 40.
- Combos Pizzeria Pretzels: Another savory snack that uses Red 40.
- Cake and Frosting Mixes: Boxed cake mixes and ready-made frostings frequently contain Red 40.
- Yogurt: Many fruit-flavored yogurts, especially strawberry, use Red 40 for a pink hue.
- Ice Cream and Sherbet: Red 40 colors various fruit-flavored and candy-infused frozen desserts.
Surprising Non-Food Products
Red 40 is not limited to food. It can also be found in non-edible products to create color.
- Cosmetics: Some lipsticks, blushes, and eyeliners use Red 40.
- Medications: Certain over-the-counter and prescription pills or syrups, like children's cough syrup, contain the dye.
- Toothpaste: Some toothpastes, particularly those marketed to children, can contain Red 40.
Natural Alternatives to Red 40
Given the concerns surrounding Red 40, many consumers and food manufacturers are turning to natural alternatives. These plant-based colorings offer a way to achieve similar hues without synthetic chemicals.
| Natural Alternative | Source | Common Use | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beetroot Juice/Powder | Beets | Frosting, cake, candies, drinks | Rich in antioxidants |
| Paprika | Red peppers | Seasonings, chips, sauces | Contains Vitamin A and carotenoids |
| Annatto | Achiote seeds | Cheeses, dairy, crackers | May support eye health |
| Pomegranate Juice | Pomegranate fruit | Beverages, jams, desserts | High in Vitamin C and antioxidants |
| Hibiscus Flower | Hibiscus flower | Teas, icing, jams | High in Vitamin C |
| Carmine | Cochineal insect | Candies, yogurt, processed meats | Produces a very vibrant red color |
How to Avoid Products with Red 40
For those who wish to avoid Red 40, careful label reading is the most effective method. The dye may be listed as FD&C Red No. 40, Allura Red AC, or simply Red 40. Look for natural alternatives in products, choose organic items, and consider making more food from scratch to control ingredients. Being mindful of these labels is especially important for parents concerned about potential effects on children's behavior.
Conclusion
Red 40 is a ubiquitous artificial coloring found in a vast number of popular food and non-food products. From candies and cereals to beverages and cosmetics, its prevalence is often surprising to consumers who begin reading labels. While regulatory bodies like the FDA consider it safe within approved limits, ongoing studies and consumer advocacy have highlighted potential concerns, especially related to hyperactivity in sensitive children. For those seeking to reduce or eliminate Red 40 from their diet, the best strategy is diligent label-checking and prioritizing items made with natural alternatives like beet juice or paprika. This awareness empowers consumers to make informed choices about the products they purchase for themselves and their families. For a comprehensive list of foods and products containing Red 40 and other dyes, an excellent resource is the Environmental Working Group (EWG) food additives database, which compiles information from the USDA.
Note: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a healthcare professional for health concerns.
