Red 40 And Red 40 Lake

Red 40 (also known as Allura Red AC) is a synthetic food coloring made from petroleum. It is one of the most commonly used artificial red dyes in the United States. Red 40 Lake is a form of Red 40 where the dye is mixed with a metallic salt, making it insoluble and suitable for different applications.

Manufacturers add Red 40 to foods and beverages to give them a vibrant red color. It is frequently found in candies, desserts, soft drinks, cereals, and processed snacks. Red 40 Lake is often used in products where the color needs to be stable in fats or oils, or when a non-bleeding color is desired.

Red 40 is an FDA-approved color additive for use in food, drugs, and cosmetics. JECFA has evaluated Red 40 and set an acceptable daily intake. EFSA has also evaluated Red 40. There has been ongoing debate about whether Red 40, and other artificial food colors, might be linked to hyperactivity in some children; however, the evidence is mixed. In April 2025, the FDA announced a plan to phase out petroleum-based synthetic dyes, including Red 40.