Red No. 40 (Allura Red AC): Uses in Food and Cosmetics, Safety Concerns, and Labeling Names

Chemical Identity

IUPAC: Disodium 6-hydroxy-5-[(2-methoxy-5-methyl-4-sulfophenyl)azo]-2-naphthalenesulfonate. CAS: 25956-17-6. Color Index: CI 16035. EU Number: E129.

Source and Regulatory Status

Synthetic azo dye derived from petroleum. FDA-certified (FD&C Red No. 40) for food, drugs, cosmetics. Permitted in EU (E129) with ADI 7 mg/kg bw/day. Banned in some countries (e.g., Denmark, Belgium, France, Switzerland previously) but now harmonized under EU regulation.

Common Uses

• Foods: Candies, baked goods, cereals, beverages, gelatin, ice cream, snack foods, pet food.
• Cosmetics: Lipstick, eyeshadow, blush, nail polish.
• Drugs: Coated tablets, syrups.

Safety Controversies

• Hyperactivity: 2007 Southampton study (McCann et al., Lancet) linked artificial color mixtures (including Red 40) + sodium benzoate to increased hyperactivity in children. EFSA concluded evidence insufficient for causal link; EU requires warning label: "may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children."
• Carcinogenicity: Chronic rodent studies negative at high doses. IARC: Group 3 (not classifiable).
• Allergy: Rare hypersensitivity (urticaria, angioedema) reported.

Consumer Guidance

Read ingredient lists for "Red 40," "Allura Red AC," "FD&C Red No. 40," "E129," or "CI 16035." Choose naturally colored alternatives (beet juice, annatto, paprika extract) if concerned.