And Fd & C Red No. 40

FD&C Red No. 40, also known as Allura Red AC, is a synthetic food dye. It is an azo dye, meaning it contains an azo group (-N=N-) as part of its chemical structure, and is produced from petroleum.

Manufacturers add Red No. 40 to foods and beverages to give them a red color. It is commonly found in soft drinks, candies, cereals, baked goods, and some seasoning mixes.

FD&C Red No. 40 is an FDA-approved color additive for use in food, drugs, and cosmetics. In April 2025, the FDA announced a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, including Red No. 40. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has evaluated Red No. 40 and established an acceptable daily intake. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has also evaluated it. There has been debate regarding a possible link between synthetic food dyes, including Red No. 40, and hyperactivity in some children; however, scientific evidence on this topic remains mixed.