what is red dye in food

Red dye in food is a synthetic color additive made from petroleum. It is used to enhance the color of food products and is one of the most widely used food dyes. Red dye 40 is the most popular color additive and can be listed on food labels as Red 40, Red 40 Lake, FD&C Red No. 40, or FD&C Red No. 40 Aluminum Lake. It is commonly found in processed foods, such as cakes, pastries, candy, chewing gum, breakfast cereals, jello, fruit snacks, chips, soda, sports drinks, energy drinks, and powdered drink mixes. Red dye 40 is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in foods and drinks. While it is generally safe for most people to consume and poses no health risk, some individuals may be allergic to it. However, some studies suggest that red dye 40 may be linked to allergies, migraines, and mental disorders in children. To avoid red dye 40, it is best to read food labels and look for healthy alternatives that use natural food coloring from fruit and vegetable extracts, such as beet juice, beet powder, blueberry juice, pomegranate juice, beta-carotene, cranberries, cherries, strawberries, and dried hibiscus flowers.