Which candy contains red dye?

In 2021, a report from the state of California indicated that synthetic food dyes could cause or exacerbate neurobehavioral problems in some children. Many health-conscious consumers frequently ask, "Which candy contains red dye?" to make informed decisions about their treats.

Quick Summary

This article lists popular candies containing different types of red dyes, including Red 40, Red 3, and carmine, explaining how to find these ingredients on product labels. Information on the safety concerns and alternative dye-free candies is also provided.

Key Points

• Red 40 is a common synthetic red dye: Found in many popular candies like Skittles, Starburst, and M&M's.

• Red 3 is being banned: The FDA finalized a ban on Red 3 in food, effective in 2025, due to cancer links in animal studies.

• Carmine is a natural, insect-derived dye: This colorant, made from cochineal beetles, is found in some gummy and European candies.

• Dye-free alternatives exist: Brands like YumEarth and UNREAL use natural colorings from fruits and vegetables.

• Check ingredient labels: The most reliable way to identify red dyes is by reading the ingredient list for names like "Red 40" or "carmine".

• Health impacts vary: Red 40 is linked to hyperactivity in sensitive children, while carmine can cause allergic reactions in some individuals.

Understanding the Different Types of Red Dye

When searching for red dye in candy, it is important to distinguish between the most common types: Red 40, Red 3, and carmine. These colorants have different origins and regulatory statuses, and they appear in a wide variety of products.

Red 40 (Allura Red AC)

Red 40, also known as Allura Red AC, is a synthetic food dye made from petroleum. It is one of the most widely used food colorings in the United States and is found in a vast array of foods, including many candies. Health authorities like the FDA and the European Union have approved its use, but it has been linked to allergic reactions and worsened behavioral symptoms in some children, particularly those with ADHD. Because of this, it is one of the most discussed food dyes.

Red 3 (Erythrosine)

Red 3, or erythrosine, is another synthetic dye derived from petroleum. In 1990, the FDA banned Red 3 for use in cosmetics and external drugs after studies linked it to cancer in laboratory rats, though it remained in food products for decades. Following state legislation in California, the FDA recently finalized a ban on the use of Red 3 in foods, which is scheduled to take effect in 2025. However, as of late 2024, some products may still contain it until companies reformulate or the ban is fully implemented.

Carmine (Cochineal Extract)

Carmine, or cochineal extract, is a natural red dye derived from the crushed bodies of female cochineal beetles. Used for centuries, it is a stable and potent coloring agent often listed as "carmine," "cochineal extract," or "E120" on ingredient lists. While not linked to the same behavioral concerns as synthetic dyes, carmine is an animal-derived product and can cause severe allergic reactions in a small percentage of people. In response to consumer and advocacy group concerns, the FDA mandated clearer labeling for carmine beginning in 2011 to help individuals with allergies or those following vegan diets avoid it.

Popular Candies Containing Red Dye

Ingredient lists are the most reliable source for determining which candies contain red dye. While reformulations happen frequently, especially concerning Red 3, many classic products are known to contain Red 40 or carmine.

Candies with Red 40

• Skittles: The red and other colored candies in the Original mix contain Red 40.
• Starburst: The strawberry and cherry flavors often contain Red 40.
• Hot Tamales: The original cinnamon flavor contains Red 40.
• M&M's: All colors are typically made with a blend of dyes, and Red 40 is listed as an ingredient, even in non-red candies.
• Jelly Belly: Certain flavors are colored with Red 40.
• Dubble Bubble: Some varieties, including the original flavor, have used Red 40.

Candies that May Have Contained Red 3 (Phasing Out)

• PEZ: All assorted fruit flavors of PEZ candies used to contain Red 3, but the company is expected to reformulate to comply with upcoming bans.
• Brach's Candy Corn: Historically contained Red 3, but the manufacturer has been actively phasing it out, with fall 2025 product intended to be Red 3-free.
• Some Red Velvet Treats: Items like Entenmann's Little Bites Party Cake Mini Muffins or specific frostings used to contain Red 3.

Candies with Carmine

• Nerds Gummy Clusters: Some versions contain carmine color derived from cochineal insects.
• European M&M's: Unlike the US version, red M&M's in Europe use carmine as their coloring agent.
• Some Gummy Candies: Certain brands of gummies, depending on their formulation, may use carmine for their red color.

Finding Red Dye-Free Candy Alternatives

For those who want to avoid artificial or insect-derived dyes, a growing market of dye-free candy options is available. Many use natural colorants derived from fruit and vegetable juices.

• YumEarth: This brand is widely available and offers a variety of dye-free candies, including lollipops and gummies, using natural fruit and vegetable juices for color.
• UNREAL: Offers chocolate gems similar to M&M's that are colored using ingredients like beetroot juice and red radish.
• Black Forest Organic Gummies: Made with natural colors from sources like carrot, blueberry, and beet juice.
• Torie & Howard: A brand specializing in dye-free hard candies and chews.
• Certain Chocolate Brands: Most plain milk chocolate bars, like classic Hershey's, are free of artificial red dyes.

Comparison of Red Dyes in Popular Candies

Candy Brand	Common Red Dye(s)	Notes
Skittles	Red 40	Red 40 is used in the coloring of the red candies.
Starburst	Red 40	The red, strawberry-flavored chews contain Red 40.
M&M's	Red 40	All colors typically contain Red 40 as part of the dye blend.
PEZ	Red 3 (Phasing Out)	Historically contained Red 3, but the formula is being updated.
Dubble Bubble Gum	Red 3 (Phasing Out)	The original formula contained Red 3, though manufacturers are reformulating.
Nerds Gummy Clusters	Carmine	Some versions use carmine (cochineal extract) for coloring.
Unreal Chocolate Gems	Natural Dyes	Uses colors from natural sources like beet juice.

Checking the Ingredient Label

Ultimately, the most reliable way to know what a candy contains is to read the ingredient label. The FDA requires manufacturers to list all certified color additives by name, such as "FD&C Red No. 40" or "Red 40 Lake". For carmine, it will be listed as "carmine" or "cochineal extract". Remember that formulations can change, so always double-check the label, especially for seasonal or foreign products.

Conclusion

Identifying which candy contains red dye is crucial for managing dietary sensitivities, making ethical choices, and avoiding specific health concerns. The three main red dyes found in candy are the synthetic, petroleum-derived Red 40 and Red 3 (which is being banned), and the natural, insect-derived carmine. While Red 40 remains prevalent, and carmine is used as a natural alternative, the phase-out of Red 3 marks a significant change in food additives. Fortunately, the market for dye-free candies is expanding, offering consumers more options than ever before. Always checking the ingredient list is the best practice for making an informed choice about your treats. For more information on food dye concerns, consult reliable sources like the Center for Science in the Public Interest: https://www.cspi.org/cspi-news/synthetic-food-dyes-rainbow-risks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do M&M's contain red dye?

Yes, M&M's contain Red Dye 40. According to ingredient labels and consumer reports, all M&M's colors are made with a blend of dyes that includes Red 40.

Is carmine a red dye found in candy?

Yes, carmine is a red dye used in some candies. It is a natural colorant made from cochineal insects and can be found in products like some gummy clusters and European versions of candies.

Why is Red Dye 3 being banned?

The FDA banned Red Dye 3 for use in food because animal studies conducted in the 1980s linked it to cancer in rats, though it continued to be permitted in food until recently.

What is the difference between Red 40 and Red 3?

Red 40 and Red 3 are both synthetic dyes derived from petroleum. However, Red 40 remains approved for use (with some health concerns noted), while Red 3 is now banned in food due to a link to cancer in animals.

Are there any candies that are entirely dye-free?

Yes, many brands specialize in dye-free candies, using natural colorings from fruits and vegetables instead. Examples include YumEarth, UNREAL, and Black Forest Organic Gummies.

Can I find red dye information on the packaging?

Yes, in the US, the FDA requires food manufacturers to list certified color additives by name in the ingredient statement, such as "FD&C Red No. 40" or "carmine".

Do all red candies have artificial red dye?

No, not all red candies contain artificial dyes. Some products use natural colorants from sources like beet juice, radish, or paprika, especially those marketed as 'natural' or 'dye-free'.

Does candy corn contain red dye?

Traditionally, some brands of candy corn, such as Brach's, contained Red 3. However, manufacturers have been reformulating these products to remove the ingredient in response to regulatory changes.