Significant concerns; banned in some countries or classified as possible carcinogen
Red 40 / Allura Red (detailed)
At a Glance
Quick Answer
Red 40 / Allura Red (detailed) 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 Red 40 / Allura Red (detailed)?
Most used food dye in US (by volume). In candy, cereal, beverages, medicine. EU warning label required ('may have adverse effect on activity and attention in children'). No warning in US. From petroleum. Southampton study linked to hyperactivity
Regulatory Status by Country
🇺🇸 United StatesUS
ApprovedMost used food dye in US (by volume). In candy, cereal, beverages, medicine. EU warning label required ('may have adverse effect on activity and attention in children'). No warning in US. From petroleum. Southampton study linked to hyperactivity
🇪🇺 European UnionEU
Approved with warning (as E129)Most used food dye in US (by volume). In candy, cereal, beverages, medicine. EU warning label required ('may have adverse effect on activity and attention in children'). No warning in US. From petroleum. Southampton study linked to hyperactivity
🇬🇧 United KingdomUK
Same as EUFollows EU regulations
🇯🇵 Japan
Check MHLW🇨🇦 CanadaCA
ApprovedGenerally aligned with US FDA. Regulated by Health Canada.
🇦🇺 Australia/NZAU/NZ
ApprovedGenerally aligned with EU standards. Regulated by FSANZ.
🇮🇳 India
ApprovedWidely approved internationally. Regulated by FSSAI.
🇰🇷 South KoreaKR
Check MFDSVerify with South Korea's Ministry of Food and Drug Safety.
🇧🇷 Brazil
ApprovedGenerally aligned with Codex/US standards. Regulated by ANVISA.
🇨🇳 China
ApprovedPermitted 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
Red 40 / Allura Red (detailed) 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. As with all food additives, moderation is key. Consult healthcare professionals for personalized dietary advice.
Is Red 40 / Allura Red (detailed) safe?
Red 40 / Allura Red (detailed) has a safety rating of "Avoid / Concerns". Significant concerns; banned in some countries or classified as possible carcinogen
Is Red 40 / Allura Red (detailed) vegan?
Red 40 / Allura Red (detailed) is generally considered vegan-friendly, though sourcing may vary.
Is Red 40 / Allura Red (detailed) banned in Europe?
No, Red 40 / Allura Red (detailed) is Approved with warning (as E129) in the EU.
What is Red 40 / Allura Red (detailed) made from?
Most used food dye in US (by volume). In candy, cereal, beverages, medicine. EU warning label required ('may have adverse effect on activity and attention in children'). No warning in US. From petroleum. Southampton study linked to hyperactivity
Weekly Ingredient Alert
Get weekly updates on food additive news, regulatory changes, and safety alerts.
Found a concerning additive?
Looking for cleaner alternatives? Check out these options:
Recommended Reading
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Red 40 / Allura Red (detailed) safe?
Is Red 40 / Allura Red (detailed) banned in any country?
What is Red 40 / Allura Red (detailed) used for?
Often Found Together
Other additives with the same safety rating from different categories
Related Searches
People also ask:
Want Additive-Free Food?
Explore organic food delivery services that prioritize clean ingredients.
Explore Clean Food Options →