Citric Acid And Red 40

Citric acid is a natural organic acid found in citrus fruits. It is commonly made through the fermentation of sugar. Red 40, also known as Allura Red AC, is a synthetic color additive made from petroleum.

Citric acid is used to add a sour taste, act as a preservative, and adjust acidity in many foods and drinks, including soft drinks, candies, and fruit-flavored products. Red 40 is added to give foods and beverages a bright red color, often found in candies, cereals, snacks, and dairy products like yogurt and ice cream.

Citric acid is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. JECFA has evaluated citric acid and did not set a numeric acceptable daily intake (ADI not specified), indicating very low toxicity. Red 40 is an FDA-approved color additive. The FDA considers Red 40 safe for consumption at approved levels, though some studies suggest a possible link between synthetic food dyes and hyperactivity in some children; however, the evidence is mixed. JECFA has evaluated Red 40 and set an acceptable daily intake. In April 2025, the FDA announced a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, including Red 40.