Last updated on February 20th, 2024 at 12:18 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.
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.
A comprehensive workbook crafted to empower parents in effortlessly eliminating artificial dyes from their children's diets.
Our user-friendly guide is packed with various resources and engaging worksheets tailored for you and your little one, ensuring a seamless transition to a vibrant, dye-free lifestyle."
- 4 WEEKS of Dye-Free Meal plans, carefully constructed and with shopping lists.
- The Big List of Dye-Free Breakfasts
- The Big List of Dye-Free Lunches
- The Big List of Dye-Free Snacks
- The Big List of Dye-Free Dinners
- Your favorite grocery store brands that are dye-free
- Food Mood Journals - 2 versions
- Dye-Free Success Checklist (start here)
- Weekly Observation Notes - perfect for sharing with family members, teachers, and healthcare 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.
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Sensible Portions websiteWe love these veggie straws! They come in 7 different flavors including sea salt, ranch, and cheddar. I love the original sea salt flavor, but I know many of you are looking for a dye-free hot chip, and this one fits the bill!
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Oreo WebstieThe Classic version is free from Red Dye 40 but it is important to note that there are many artificial ingredients in these cookies and some parents suspect they also trigger a reaction similar to that of Red Dye 40.
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Snackworks websiteThe Wheat Thins "Original" version is free of Red Dye 40, in fact, it is free from all artificial dyes.
UPDATE : We now also have compiled a list of dye-free snacks, this list contains 0 artificial food dyes. You can find it HERE.
Printable.
List of 30 Red Dye Free Snacks
- Print it
- Hang it on the fridge
- Share with friends.
A comprehensive workbook crafted to empower parents in effortlessly eliminating artificial dyes from their children's diets.
Our user-friendly guide is packed with various resources and engaging worksheets tailored for you and your little one, ensuring a seamless transition to a vibrant, dye-free lifestyle."
- 4 WEEKS of Dye-Free Meal plans, carefully constructed and with shopping lists.
- The Big List of Dye-Free Breakfasts
- The Big List of Dye-Free Lunches
- The Big List of Dye-Free Snacks
- The Big List of Dye-Free Dinners
- Your favorite grocery store brands that are dye-free
- Food Mood Journals - 2 versions
- Dye-Free Success Checklist (start here)
- Weekly Observation Notes - perfect for sharing with family members, teachers, and healthcare 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:
How To Go Dye-Free: Roadmap to a Dye-Free Diet
Food Dyes Possibly Linked To Hyperactivity in Children
