Ingredient

Red 40 And Acesulfame Potassium

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Red 40 provides a red color to foods like gelatin desserts, candies, and beverages. …

What is Red 40 And Acesulfame Potassium?

Red 40 is a synthetic red food dye. Acesulfame potassium is an artificial sweetener, about 200 times sweeter than sugar. It is often used in combination with other sweeteners.

Is Red 40 And Acesulfame Potassium vegan?

Red 40 And Acesulfame Potassium is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.

Is Red 40 And Acesulfame Potassium a major allergen?

Not a major allergen.

What is Red 40 And Acesulfame Potassium used for?

Red 40 provides a red color to foods like gelatin desserts, candies, and beverages.

Is Red 40 And Acesulfame Potassium safe?

Red 40 is an FDA-approved color additive.

Why it's used

Red 40 provides a red color to foods like gelatin desserts, candies, and beverages. Acesulfame potassium is used to sweeten a variety of products, including diet drinks, baked goods, and tabletop sweeteners, often to reduce sugar and calorie content.

Health notes

Red 40 is an FDA-approved color additive. In April 2025, FDA announced a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, including Red 40. Acesulfame potassium is FDA-approved as a sweetener. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated both ingredients. Some studies have explored potential links between artificial sweeteners and health outcomes, but the evidence is mixed and research is ongoing. The US National Academies have not established upper intake levels for these ingredients.

Allergen info

Not a major allergen.

Foods that contain Red 40 And Acesulfame Potassium

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Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.

Last updated: October 6, 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.