Last updated on August 20th, 2023 at 08:38 pm
We have been busy reading labels to collect a list of snacks without Red Dye 40.
Since reading labels for artificial food dyes like Red 40 is time-consuming, we thought we would do the work for you.
As always, check the label again when you buy any of the products listed. Manufacturers often change ingredients.
This list is for snack foods and not inclusive of healthy snack foods. We know that parents whose children need to avoid Red Dye 40 want to be able to give their kids special snacks and treats on occasion. That is what this list is designed for.
What is Red Dye 40?
Red dye 40 is a synthetic food coloring sourced from crude oil. It is a petroleum-based dye. Its sole purpose is to make our food look a certain way.
I kept visualizing a red velvet cake when I started exploring this topic. It makes sense that there would be a ton of red dye in something like that! Don’t panic, red velvet cake fans; I found this safer alternative recipe for you.
I have since learned that Red Dye 40 is pretty much in everything. Ok, not everything, but I challenge you to walk down an aisle in your grocery store and not find at least 20 different food labels. I’m talking about butter, frosting, yogurt, drinks, jello, cake mixes, syrup, and juice.
I have created everything you need to help you transition to a life free of artificial dyes.
Even activities to engage your kids in the process!
Look at what's included.
- Food Mood Journals - 2 versions
- Dye-Free Success Checklist (start here)
- Weekly Observation Notes - perfect for sharing with family members, teachers, and health care providers
- Kids How Do I Feel Today printables
- My favorite Dye-Free Foods quick reference sheet
- Meal Planners - 3 versions
- Grocery List Planner
How To Avoid Artificial Colors In Food
Look for food labeled as USDA Organic, which does not allow any artificial dyes.
Also, read labels. The following artificial food colors are allowed according to the FDA.
Look for terms like:
- Artificial colors
- Red #3
- Red #40
- Yellow #5
- Yellow #6
- Blue #1
- Blue #2
- Green #3
- Orange B
- Citrus Red #2
Reasons To Avoid Red Dye 40 In Food Include:
- Hyperactivity in children (this is why it’s banned in Europe)
- Some believe it causes stomach discomfort and headaches
- It is a man-made synthetic
I urge you to do your research. Here is a great place to start from PubMed “Toxicology of Food Dyes“.
I can’t help but think of when moms sounded the alarm about BPA around 2007. It took years of evidence and research to have our Government acknowledge that BPA should not be used in baby bottles, sippy cups, and formula cans. If you are not familiar with BPA, I created a crash course. My point is that hopefully, someday, these artificial synthetic colors will not be allowed in our food.
Printable.
List of 30 Red Dye Free Snacks
- Print it
- Hang it on the fridge
- Share with friends.
I have created everything you need to help you transition to a life free of artificial dyes.
Even activities to engage your kids in the process!
Look at what's included.
- Food Mood Journals - 2 versions
- Dye-Free Success Checklist (start here)
- Weekly Observation Notes - perfect for sharing with family members, teachers, and health care providers
- Kids How Do I Feel Today printables
- My favorite Dye-Free Foods quick reference sheet
- Meal Planners - 3 versions
- Grocery List Planner
List of Snacks Without Red Dye 40
Here is a list of snacks without Red Dye 40.
- Annie's Organic Variety Pack
- Pirate's Booty Cheese Puffs, Healthy Kids Snacks
- Fritos Original Corn Chips, 1 Ounce (Pack of 40)
- SkinnyPop Microwave Popcorn
- Simply Doritos & Cheetos Mix Variety Pack
- Goldfish Crackers Big Smiles with Cheddar, Colors, and Pretzel Crackers
- Mott's Fruit Flavored Snacks, Assorted Fruit, Pouches
- Mott's No Sugar Added Applesauce, 46 Ounce Jar
- Happy Baby Organics Yogis Freeze-Dried Yogurt & Fruit Snacks
- Babybel Mini Original Semisoft Cheeses
- Stonyfield Organic Kids Strawberry Vanilla & Blueberry Lowfat Yogurt
- Snack Factory Pretzel Crisps Original Flavor Pack of 24
- Smartfood White Cheddar Flavored Popcorn
- Sensible Portions Garden Veggie Straws, Sea Salt, 23.5 oz.
- BEAR - Real Fruit Yoyos Variety Pack - 4 Pack
- GoGo squeeZ Fruit on the Go Variety Pack, Apple Apple, Apple Banana, & Apple Strawberry - 20 Pouches
- General Mills Honey Nut Cheerios Gluten Free Cereal Family Size (Pack of 2)
- Organic Juice Drink Assorted Variety Pack, 6 Fl Oz
- YumEarth Organic Fruit Flavored Snacks
- Black Forest Gummy Worms, 4.5 Ounce (Pack of 12)
- Cheez-It Baked Snack Cheese Crackers, Original
- Ritz Original Party Size Crackers
- Wheat Thins Original Whole Grain Wheat Crackers
- Sunchips Multigrain Chips Variety Pack of 40

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We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
Printable.
List of 30 Red Dye Free Snacks
- Print it
- Hang it on the fridge
- Share with friends.
I have created everything you need to help you transition to a life free of artificial dyes.
Even activities to engage your kids in the process!
Look at what's included.
- Food Mood Journals - 2 versions
- Dye-Free Success Checklist (start here)
- Weekly Observation Notes - perfect for sharing with family members, teachers, and health care providers
- Kids How Do I Feel Today printables
- My favorite Dye-Free Foods quick reference sheet
- Meal Planners - 3 versions
- Grocery List Planner
Do you know of snack food that we should add to our list? Send us an email.
Further Reading:
Food Dyes Possibly Linked To Hyperactivity in Children