Medium concernColorant
FD&C Red 40
AllergenSkin irritantPossible carcinogen
What it is
A synthetic azo dye derived from petroleum, the most widely used red food colorant in the US.
What it does
Colors foods, beverages, cosmetics, and medications.
Why it’s a concern
A 2021 California OEHHA review of 27 studies concluded synthetic food dyes, including Red 40, can cause or worsen neurobehavioral effects in some children, including attention deficits. May contain benzidine contamination (a Group 1 carcinogen) as a manufacturing byproduct; the FDA permits trace levels.
Also known as
red 40allura red ACCI 16035e129
CAS numbers
25956-17-6
Commonly found in
candysoft drinkscerealcosmetics
Safer alternatives
- beet juice color
- annatto
- anthocyanin-based colorants
Sources
- California OEHHA Health Effects Assessment 2021