Red No. 40: What It Is, Uses, and Safety Concerns

Chemical Name: Allura Red AC (Food Red 17)*

Background: A synthetic azo dye derived from petroleum

Use: In addition to candy, Red No. 40 colors many foods and cosmetics, including baked goods, beverages, ice cream, gelatin desserts, pet food, lipstick, eye shadow, and blush

This red has come under fire after some studies linked it to certain types of hyperactivity/attention deficit disorder in children

*Some products may list this Red as Food Red (FD&C Red No.40); Allura Red; CI 16035; or C.I. (Colour Index#) 16035 and E129 (EU Number) for use on cosmetic color labelling in European and Asian Countries..