Red 40 (Allura Red)
Medium ConcernAlso known as
The concern
One of the "Southampton Six" food dyes. A 2007 Lancet study (McCann et al.) found links to hyperactivity in children. EFSA requires a warning label on products containing it in the EU.
What to look for on labels
This ingredient may appear under any of the following names or codes on product labels:
- Red 40 (Allura Red)
- red 40
- allura red
- e129
- fd&c red no. 40
- fd&c red 40
Commonly found in
Sweets, soft drinks, cereals, ice cream, sauces, confectionery
Other artificial colours to know about
Red 3 (Erythrosine)
HIGHFDA banned Red 3 in food and ingested drugs in January 2025 after studies showed it causes thyroid tumours in male rats.
Yellow 5 (Tartrazine)
MEDIUMSouthampton Six dye linked to hyperactivity in children.
Yellow 6 (Sunset Yellow)
MEDIUMSouthampton Six dye.
Blue 1 (Brilliant Blue)
LOWEWG flags concern over data gaps in safety studies.
Data sourced from IARC, FDA, EFSA, WHO and EWG public data. For informational purposes only. This does not constitute medical or legal advice.