FD&C Red #40 FD&C Red #3
What is FD&C Red #40 FD&C Red #3?
FD&C Red No. 3 and FD&C Red No. 40 are synthetic red food colorings. Red No. 3 is derived from petroleum, while Red No. 40 is made from coal tar. Both are approved for use in food in the United States.
Is FD&C Red #40 FD&C Red #3 vegan?
FD&C Red #40 FD&C Red #3 is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is FD&C Red #40 FD&C Red #3 a major allergen?
Not a major allergen.
What is FD&C Red #40 FD&C Red #3 used for?
These artificial colorings are added to foods to give them a red hue.
Is FD&C Red #40 FD&C Red #3 safe?
FD&C Red No. 40 is part of a planned FDA phase-out of petroleum-based synthetic dyes.
Why it's used
These artificial colorings are added to foods to give them a red hue. They are often found in baked goods, candies, beverages, and dessert toppings. Their primary function is to enhance visual appeal.
Health notes
FD&C Red No. 40 is part of a planned FDA phase-out of petroleum-based synthetic dyes. FD&C Red No. 3 was revoked by the FDA for food use in January 2025 due to cancer concerns in male rats, though the FDA stated this is not relevant to human risk. The FDA has not set specific upper intake limits for these dyes. While some studies have explored potential links between artificial food dyes and hyperactivity in children, the evidence is mixed, and regulatory bodies have not established a causal link at typical consumption levels. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has evaluated artificial food colorings.
Allergen info
Not a major allergen.
Foods that contain FD&C Red #40 FD&C Red #3
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