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Avoid / Concerns

Significant concerns; banned in some countries or classified as possible carcinogen

Safe
Avoid
Avoid / Concerns
Allura Red AC
US EU UK +7

Allura Red AC

E129 Color Avoid / Concerns 1 min read

At a Glance

Safety Rating
Avoid / Concerns
Category
Color
E-Number
E129
Banned Somewhere?
No
Controversy Level
High

Quick Answer

Allura Red AC (E129) is rated "Avoid / Concerns" according to current evidence. It is restricted in the EU and approved in the US. This additive is currently approved in all four major markets (US, EU, UK, Japan).

On This Page

What is Allura Red AC?

Red dye (Red 40 in US). EU warning label required

Also known as: allura red, FD&C Red 40, Red 40, CI 16035

Regulatory Status by Country

🇺🇸 US

Approved
Agency: FDA

US name: FD&C Red No. 40 (Allura Red)

Most used dye in US. No warning label

🇪🇺 EU

Approved with warning
Agency: EFSA

Red dye (Red 40 in US). EU warning label required

🇬🇧 UK

Same as EU pre-Brexit
Agency: FSA

UK retained EU food additive regulations post-Brexit with some modifications

🇯🇵 Japan

Approved
Agency: MHLW

Japanese: アルラレッドAC (赤色40号)

Approved as Red No. 40

🇨🇦 CA

Approved
Agency: Health Canada

Generally aligned with US FDA. Regulated by Health Canada.

🇦🇺 AU/NZ

Approved
Agency: FSANZ

Generally aligned with EU standards. Regulated by FSANZ.

🇮🇳 India

Approved
Agency: FSSAI

Widely approved internationally. Regulated by FSSAI.

🇰🇷 KR

Approved
Agency: MFDS

Generally aligned with Japanese standards. Regulated by MFDS.

🇧🇷 Brazil

Approved
Agency: ANVISA

Generally aligned with Codex/US standards. Regulated by ANVISA.

🇨🇳 China

Approved
Agency: GB 2760

Permitted under GB 2760 national standard.

Note: Canada, Australia/NZ, India, South Korea, Brazil, and China statuses are inferred from international regulatory patterns. Always verify with the relevant national authority.

Expert Analysis

Allura Red AC is classified as a color in the food additive regulatory framework. Significant safety concerns have been identified, and this additive is restricted or banned in multiple markets. This additive is approved across multiple major regulatory markets worldwide, suggesting broad scientific consensus on its safety profile. Allura Red AC remains one of the most debated food additives, generating significant public and scientific discussion. Consumers who prefer to follow the precautionary principle may wish to limit their intake. As with all food additives, moderation is key. Consult healthcare professionals for personalized dietary advice.

Is Allura Red AC safe?

Allura Red AC has a safety rating of "Avoid / Concerns". Significant concerns; banned in some countries or classified as possible carcinogen

Is Allura Red AC vegan?

Allura Red AC is generally considered vegan-friendly, though sourcing may vary.

Is Allura Red AC banned in Europe?

No, Allura Red AC is Approved with warning in the EU.

What is Allura Red AC made from?

Red dye (Red 40 in US). EU warning label required

Natural Alternatives

Consider these natural replacements for Allura Red AC:

Beetroot Red (E162) — Natural red from beets
Anthocyanins (E163) — Red-purple from fruits

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Allura Red AC safe?
Allura Red AC has a safety rating of "Avoid / Concerns" based on regulatory data from 10 countries including the US, EU, UK, Japan, Canada, and more. Significant concerns; banned in some countries or classified as possible carcinogen Always consult healthcare professionals for personalized advice.
Is Allura Red AC banned in any country?
Allura Red AC is currently approved in major markets including the US, EU, UK, Japan, Canada, and more, though specific regulations and permitted uses may vary between countries.
What is Allura Red AC used for?
Allura Red AC is a food additive in the "Color" category. Red dye (Red 40 in US). EU warning label required

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