What sodas have Red 40 in them? Your guide to spotting the ingredient

Did you know that some artificial food dyes, including Red 40, are derived from petroleum? Many consumers are surprised to learn that this common ingredient is found in numerous food and beverage products, leading them to question what sodas have Red 40 in them and how to spot it on a label.

Quick Summary

This guide lists specific soda brands and flavors that contain the artificial food coloring Red 40, explains how to read labels, and discusses why some individuals choose to avoid it for health-related reasons.

Key Points

• Red 40 is a Synthetic Dye: Red 40, also known as Allura Red AC, is a petroleum-derived dye used for coloring foods and beverages.

• Many Sodas Contain It: Popular sodas like Mountain Dew Code Red, Pepsi Wild Cherry, and Big Red all contain Red 40.

• Label Reading is Key: Red 40 can be found on ingredient lists under names like FD&C Red No. 40 or Allura Red AC.

• Concerns for Sensitive Individuals: Some evidence links Red 40 to hyperactivity in sensitive children and may cause allergic reactions in certain people.

• Natural Alternatives Exist: Ingredients like beet juice, paprika, and pomegranate juice are used as natural alternatives to synthetic dyes.

• Bottled vs. Fountain Differences: Ingredient formulations can differ, as seen with some Cherry Coca-Cola products from fountain machines versus bottles.

• Not All Red is Red 40: Some sodas use natural colors or caramel coloring to achieve their hues, so checking the label is essential.

A Closer Look at Red 40

Red 40, also known as Allura Red AC or E129 in Europe, is a widely used synthetic food dye in the United States, providing a bright red color to products. While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved its use, some organizations have raised concerns about potential health effects.

Sodas Known to Contain Red 40

Knowing which sodas contain Red 40 helps in making informed choices. Some common examples include:

• Mountain Dew Code Red
• Pepsi Wild Cherry
• Fanta (Certain Flavors), like Strawberry
• Crush (Certain Flavors), including Strawberry and Grape
• Big Red
• Dr. Pepper Cherry
• Cherry Coca-Cola (Fountain Version)

How to Check for Red 40 on Labels

To identify Red 40 on product packaging, look for terms such as:

• FD&C Red No. 40
• Red 40
• Allura Red AC
• E129 (in European products)

Always check labels, as manufacturers may change ingredients.

The Potential Health Concerns Associated with Red 40

Concerns regarding Red 40 include:

• Hyperactivity in Children: Studies suggest a possible link between artificial dyes and hyperactivity in some children. The FDA notes sensitivity in certain children.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic symptoms like hives or swelling.
• Other Potential Effects: Animal studies have raised concerns, though findings are not conclusive for humans.

A Comparison of Sodas with and Without Red 40

Soda Product (Contains Red 40)	Coloring Agent	Soda Product (Generally Dye-Free)	Coloring Agent
Mountain Dew Code Red	Red 40, Yellow 5, Blue 1	Sprite	Naturally flavored
Big Red	Red 40	7-Up	Dye-free
Pepsi Wild Cherry	Red 40, Caramel Color	Sierra Mist NATURAL	Natural flavors, no dyes
Fanta Strawberry	Red 40, Caramel Color	Sunkist Orange	Yellow 6, Red 40 (check label)
Crush Strawberry	Red 40	Ginger Ale	Caramel color
Cherry Coke (Freestyle)	Red 40	Coca-Cola Classic	Caramel color

Natural Color Alternatives

Natural alternatives to synthetic dyes include:

• Beet Juice or Powder
• Paprika Extract
• Annatto
• Pomegranate Juice
• Hibiscus Powder

Making Informed Choices

Choosing whether to consume products with Red 40 is a personal decision. Knowing how to read labels is key for those who wish to avoid it. Read more from the FDA on color additives here.

Conclusion

Many sodas, particularly red or cherry flavors, contain Red 40. Checking ingredient labels is the most reliable way to identify this additive. While the FDA deems it safe in regulated amounts, concerns exist regarding allergic reactions and potential effects on sensitive individuals, especially children. The availability of natural color alternatives provides consumers with more choices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Coca-Cola or Cherry Coke contain Red 40?

Bottled Coca-Cola and traditional bottled Cherry Coke use caramel coloring and typically do not contain Red 40. However, the Cherry Coke version from freestyle, touchscreen fountain machines has been reported to contain added red dye.

What are some popular sodas with Red 40?

Some well-known sodas containing Red 40 include Mountain Dew Code Red, Pepsi Wild Cherry, Big Red, Crush Strawberry, and Dr. Pepper Cherry.

Is Red 40 banned anywhere?

While Red 40 is approved for use in the U.S. and the EU, some regions have stricter regulations. In the EU, products containing Red 40 must carry a warning label stating they may affect activity and attention in children.

How can I tell if a soda has Red 40?

You can identify Red 40 by reading the ingredient list on the product label. Look for "FD&C Red No. 40," "Red 40," or "Allura Red AC."

Are there any dye-free sodas?

Yes, sodas like Sprite, 7-Up, and Sierra Mist NATURAL are generally dye-free, although you should always check the label to confirm.

Do sugar-free sodas contain Red 40?

Some sugar-free or zero-sugar sodas still contain Red 40. For example, H-E-B Zero Sugar Wild Red contains Red 40. The coloring is added separately from the sweetener.

Why is Red 40 controversial?

Red 40 is controversial due to potential health concerns, including links to hyperactivity in sensitive children, allergic reactions, and questions raised by animal studies regarding other effects.