Snacks Without Red Dye 40

Last updated on February 16th, 2023 at 11:58 am

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.

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

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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 Red Dye 40 Free Snacks

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List of 30 Red Dye Free Snacks

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List of Snacks Without Red Dye 40

Here is a list of snacks without Red Dye 40.

Snacks Without Red Dye 40

What is Red Dye 40?

How To Avoid Artificial Colors In Food

Reasons To Avoid Red Dye 40 In Food Include:

List of Snacks Without Red Dye 40

Further Reading:

Keep Reading

Food Dyes Possibly Linked to Hyperactivity in Children

List of Food Dye Free Water Flavors

Red Dye 40, What It Is and How To Avoid It