Red 40 (Allura Red AC, E129) is the most widely used artificial food dye in America, found in candy, cereals, sports drinks, and thousands of other products. It has been linked to hyperactivity in children, allergic reactions, and may contain carcinogenic contaminants from manufacturing. The FDA is phasing it out by the end of 2027.
Below are products in our database that have been verified free of Red 40, plus a list of products that contain it so you know what to avoid.
What is Red 40?
Red 40 (also called Allura Red AC, FD&C Red No. 40, or E129) is a petroleum-derived synthetic food dye that produces a bright red color. It is the most widely used artificial food dye in the United States, found in candy, cereals, beverages, snacks, and even some medications.
What foods contain Red 40?
Red 40 is commonly found in Skittles, Doritos (Nacho Cheese and other flavors), Gatorade Fruit Punch, Froot Loops, Twizzlers, red velvet cake mixes, strawberry-flavored yogurts, fruit snacks, and many children's medications and vitamins.
Is Red 40 banned?
Red 40 is being voluntarily phased out by the FDA by the end of 2027. It is already banned in Norway and Austria, and the EU requires warning labels on products containing it. Red 3 (a different red dye) is already banned in California.
What are safe alternatives to Red 40?
Natural alternatives to Red 40 include beet juice or beetroot extract, carmine (cochineal extract, though not vegan), lycopene from tomatoes, and anthocyanins from red cabbage or berries. Many brands have already switched to these natural colorants.
