Ingredient · E129

Including Fd&c: Red #40

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Manufacturers add FD&C Red #40 to foods and beverages to impart a red color. …

What it is

FD&C Red #40, also known as Allura Red AC, is a synthetic red food dye. It is manufactured from petroleum and is one of the most commonly used food colors in the United States.

Why it's used

Manufacturers add FD&C Red #40 to foods and beverages to impart a red color. It is frequently found in candies, cereals, soft drinks, baked goods, and snack foods, helping to make products visually appealing.

Health notes

In the United States, FD&C Red #40 is an FDA-approved color additive for use in food. JECFA (the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives) has evaluated it and set an acceptable daily intake, as has the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). Some studies suggest a link between synthetic food dyes, including Red #40, and hyperactivity in some sensitive children; however, the evidence is mixed, and regulatory bodies like the FDA state that the current evidence does not establish a causal link for the general population. In April 2025, the FDA announced a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, including Red #40.

Allergen info

Not a major allergen.

Products containing Including Fd&c: Red #40

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Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.