Color: Red 40 Lake

Red 40 Lake is a synthetic color additive used to give foods a red color. It is made by combining Red 40 dye with an insoluble material, often aluminum hydroxide, to create a pigment that is stable and does not dissolve in water. This makes it suitable for coloring products that contain little moisture or fats.

Manufacturers add Red 40 Lake to provide a vibrant red color to a wide range of foods. It is commonly found in candies, baked goods, dessert mixes, and some beverages. Its lake form is especially useful for coloring solid foods and coatings.

Red 40 Lake is an FDA-approved color additive for use in food. In April 2025, the FDA announced a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, including Red 40. JECFA has evaluated Red 40 and set an acceptable daily intake. EFSA has also evaluated it. Some studies have suggested a link between synthetic food colors, including Red 40, and hyperactivity in some children, though evidence remains mixed and not all studies have found a consistent link.