What red dye does M&M's use?

January 8, 2026 •

4 min read

In 1976, Mars temporarily removed the red M&M from its bags to avoid consumer confusion over the banned Red Dye No. 2, despite never having used it. Today, understanding what red dye does M&M's use requires differentiating between the ingredients in U.S. products and those sold internationally.

Quick Summary

This article explores the specific red dyes found in M&M's, detailing the use of Red 40 in the United States and the application of natural alternatives like carmine in Europe. It examines why these ingredient differences exist due to varying food regulations and consumer preferences.

Key Points

Red 40 in the U.S.: U.S. M&M's use Allura Red AC, also known as Red 40, a synthetic, petroleum-derived food coloring.
Carmine in Europe: M&M's sold in Europe and other international markets use carmine (E120), a natural red dye from the cochineal insect.
1976 Red Dye Scare: Red M&M's were temporarily removed in 1976 due to public concerns over the banned Red Dye No. 2, even though the candy did not use it.
International Regulation Differences: Mars uses different ingredients globally to adhere to varying food safety regulations, with Europe having stricter rules on artificial colors.
Future Options: Mars plans to offer versions of M&M's without FD&C colors in the U.S. starting in 2026, giving consumers a choice.
Ingredient Transparency: The difference in red dye ingredients highlights a broader trend toward increased consumer awareness and demand for ingredient transparency.

The U.S. vs. International Ingredient Divide

Mars, the manufacturer of M&M's, uses different ingredients for its products in different regions to comply with local food regulations and consumer preferences. In the United States, a variety of artificial and synthetic food colorings are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, in Europe and other parts of the world, a different set of colorants is used, driven by stricter regulations regarding synthetic dyes.

The Red Dye in U.S. M&M's: Allura Red (Red 40)

In the United States, the vibrant red color of M&M's is primarily achieved using Allura Red AC, also known as Red 40. This is one of the most common artificial food colorings certified by the FDA and derived from petroleum. When listed on an ingredient label, it may also appear as 'Red 40 Lake,' which is a version of the dye combined with aluminum to make it insoluble in water and prevent color bleeding.

Common ingredients in U.S. M&M's colors include:

Red 40 Lake: Provides the red hue.
Yellow 5 & Yellow 6: For yellow and orange candies.
Blue 1 & Blue 2: For blue M&M's.
Titanium Dioxide: Often used to create a vibrant, opaque color.

The Red Dye in European M&M's: Carmine (E120)

For M&M's sold in Europe and certain other international markets, the red color is achieved using a different, natural source: carmine. Carmine, often listed as E120, is a brilliant crimson pigment derived from the cochineal insect. This natural colorant has been used for centuries and is widely accepted in Europe, where many synthetic dyes are banned or restricted.

Ingredients for European M&M's colors (in addition to carmine) can include:

E160a: Paprika extract.
E133: Brilliant Blue FCF.
E100: Curcumin.
Beetroot Concentrate: For additional red tones.

Historical Context: The 1976 Red Scare

The disappearance of the red M&M in 1976 was a significant historical moment in the brand's history. The FDA banned Red Dye No. 2 (amaranth) due to safety concerns, leading Mars to remove its red-colored M&M's as a precautionary measure to calm public anxiety, even though their candies used a different, FDA-approved dye. Red M&M's were finally reintroduced in the U.S. in 1987 after a successful consumer campaign.

Mars' Current and Future Stance on Dyes

In recent years, Mars has faced scrutiny over its use of artificial dyes in the U.S., despite its 2016 pledge to phase them out from its human food products. While the company did not fully follow through on the initial blanket promise, facing consumer feedback and reformulation challenges, it has continued to offer options with artificial colors in the U.S. market. In August 2025, Mars announced that some versions of its candies, including M&M's, would be available nationwide without FD&C colors starting in 2026, offering consumers a choice.

Comparison Table: U.S. vs. EU M&M's Red Dye


Feature	U.S. M&M's (Red Dye)	EU M&M's (Red Dye)
Primary Red Dye	Allura Red AC (Red 40)	Carmine (E120)
Source of Dye	Petroleum-based synthetic dye	Natural dye from the cochineal insect
Regulation	Approved by U.S. FDA	Approved by European food safety authorities
Availability	Primarily in the United States	Primarily in Europe
Consumer Preference	Some consumers are shifting towards natural alternatives	Preference for natural colorants is widespread

The Impact on Consumer Choice

The difference in red dye ingredients highlights the significant divergence in food regulatory approaches and consumer demands across the globe. U.S. consumers are accustomed to the bright, consistent colors provided by synthetic dyes like Red 40, while European consumers prioritize natural ingredients. This market segmentation forces large manufacturers like Mars to maintain separate supply chains and ingredient lists for different regions. Consumers aware of this difference can seek out European imports if they prefer the natural alternative or opt for the new versions of M&M's free from synthetic dyes expected in the U.S. market in 2026. Ultimately, this choice reflects a broader trend of increased consumer awareness and demand for transparency regarding food ingredients. For more information, you can visit the official Mars website.

Conclusion

The answer to "what red dye does M&M's use?" is not a simple one, as it depends on where the product is purchased. In the United States, the artificial dye Red 40 is used, while in Europe and other regions, the natural colorant carmine is used instead. This difference is a result of varying international regulations and consumer preferences. As Mars moves toward offering more options without synthetic dyes in the U.S., consumers will have more choices, addressing the ongoing debate surrounding artificial food colors and their impact on health and safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Only M&M's sold in Europe and other select international markets use carmine, a natural red dye derived from the cochineal insect. U.S. M&M's use Red 40, a synthetic dye.

Red M&M's were removed in 1976 due to public anxiety over the FDA's ban of Red Dye No. 2. Mars took this action to avoid consumer confusion, although their products used a different red dye.

Yes, Red 40 (Allura Red AC) is one of the certified color additives that the U.S. FDA approves for use in food and beverages.

No, Mars has announced that while options without FD&C colors will be available in the U.S. starting in 2026, they will continue to offer versions with artificial colors as well, consistent with some consumer preferences.

You can check the ingredient label. In the U.S., you will likely see "Red 40" or "Red 40 Lake". In Europe, you may see "Carmine" or the code "E120".

While the FDA considers Red 40 safe, some studies have suggested potential links to hyperactivity, particularly in children. Research on the long-term effects of artificial food dyes is ongoing.

Carmine is a common natural red coloring. Many other candies, juices, and even cosmetics may use it, especially those sold in Europe or marketed as using natural colors.

Red 40 is the primary water-soluble dye, while Red 40 Lake is an insoluble pigment created by combining the dye with an aluminum substrate.