Red Dye 40

Red Dye 40 or Allura Red AC is a synthetic azo dye made from petroleum that is used to color food, cosmetics, and medicine. An azo dye is a subcategory of artificial dyes, described by its chemical composition of the azo group. Red Dye 40 is the most widely used red dye in the United States. Consumption of this synthetic dye has been linked to triggering hyperactivity and symptoms of attention disorders. Red Dye 40 can also be found in children’s medications like cough syrups. Research continues to show associations between this dye and its health effects, particularly on children. Other names Red Dye 40 can be found under are Red 40 Lake, FD&C Red No. 40, and FD&C Red No. 40 Aluminum Lake.