The dangerous chemicals added to your food

On April 22, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced that eight synthetic food dyes will be phased out of medications and the food supply by the end of 2026. These include dyes commonly found in products like candy, ice cream, soft drinks, and jams.

This move brings renewed attention to artificial food colorings, which are added to enhance or restore color in many processed foods. These dyes are petroleum-based chemicals that do not occur in nature. Among those targeted in the ban is Red Dye 40—approved for use in 1971 and now one of the most commonly used food colorings in the US. Despite its widespread use, some studies suggest it may worsen symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in certain children.

With that in mind, you may be wondering if Red Dye 40 is safe to consume and what foods contain this dye. Click through the gallery to find out. 

What is red dye 40?

Red dye 40 is made from petroleum and approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for use in food and drinks. 

Red dye 40 is used to create uniform colors in consumable products. It can also help consumers identify flavors. For example, using red dye 40 can imply a cherry or strawberry flavor.

Foods that contain red dye 40

Red dye 40 can be found in a wide range of food products, including gelatins, puddings, dairy products, bakery products, snacks, and sodas.

Many of the food and drink items that contain red dye 40 are specifically created for and marketed to children.

When was it introduced?

Red dye 40 replaced red dye 2 in 1976 due to reported links with cancer from red dye 2.

How to identify red dye 40?

Not all foods that contain red dye 40 are red. A combination of artificial dyes, including red dye 40, is used to give some pickles a pronounced yellow-green color.

Where else is red dye 40 found?

Red dye 40 can also be found in cosmetics like blush, concealer, foundation, eyeliner, and eye makeup remover.

Is red dye 40 safe?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) considers red dye 40 to be of low concern to health. 

Growing concerns

Research suggests red dye 40 can cause health concerns and there is a growing pressure for the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to ban the additive. 

Red dye 40 and ADHD

Research shows that consumption of red dye 40 can worsen ADHD symptoms, specifically inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and restlessness. 

Red dye 40 and gut health

A study carried out on mice showed continual exposure to the red dye 40 caused inflammation and damage to gut health. The effects have not yet been proven in humans.

Red dye 40 and cancer

Red dye 40 contains benzene, which is a cancer-causing substance. Research found tumor growth in animals that consumed high doses of food dyes, but scientists are unsure how this translates to humans.

Red dye 40 and neurological health

Evidence suggests red dye 40 might be able to interrupt the brain's regulation of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and adenosine. 

Tips for avoiding red dye 40

Avoid processed foods and carefully read labels to see if synthetic dyes are listed. 

California banning red dye 3

In 2023, the state of California prohibited the use of red dye 3 in food and drinks. An advancing bill called A.B. 2316 aims to also ban red dye 40, along with five other food dyes, from food provided in schools.

Red dye 40 in Europe

While red dye 40 isn't banned in Europe, there are restrictions. European regulations require foods containing red dye 40 or other artificial colorings to carry a warning label stating the dye may adversely affect activity and attention in children.

Further research

While some evidence points to red dye 40 having an adverse effect, further research is needed. The FDA says it will continue to examine the impact of color additives on children's behavior.

Sources: (Healthline) (Cleveland Clinic) (WebMD) (Medicine Net)