Artificial Colors Including FD&C Red # 40

Artificial colors are synthetic substances used to add or enhance the color of foods. FD&C Red #40, also known as Allura Red AC, is a specific type of synthetic dye made from petroleum. It is chemically manufactured to produce a bright red hue.

Manufacturers add artificial colors like Red #40 to make foods more appealing and to ensure a consistent appearance. It is commonly found in a wide range of products, including candies, beverages, baked goods, desserts, and snack foods.

In the United States, FD&C Red #40 is approved by the FDA as a color additive for use in food. In April 2025, the FDA announced a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, including Red #40. Some scientific studies have explored a potential link between synthetic food dyes and hyperactivity in some children, though the evidence is mixed and not all studies have reached the same conclusions. JECFA (the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives) and EFSA (the European Food Safety Authority) have both evaluated this dye and established acceptable daily intake levels.