RedForty

Art by ZontarZon (me)

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Red Dye No. 40 is a synthetic red dye, one of nine FDA approved synthetic dyes in the United States. It's used to create fun, bright colors in food and drinks. It's also used to imply the taste of certain foods; for example, this dye would be used to indicate something designed to taste like cherry or strawberry. It's very popular and blends very well with other dyes.

The EPA has designated Red Dye 40 as "low concern", and the FDA has stated that it presents no danger to health, so long as it is consumed in quantities below the ADI (acceptable daily intake). That level depends on age.

However, this dye still has an exceptionally bad reputation. Several studies have concluded that Red 40 causes very adverse health effects in children with ADHD. Such effects include hyperactivity and irritability. Because of this, the FDA acknowledges that some children may be particularly sensitive to it. This has led others to speculate that Red 40 is the cause of ADHD in children; that speculation, however, is not supported by data in any way.

Many also question the validity of the data, including the sample size and age range of the study. The FDA will need more conclusive evidence before putting a warning label on products with Red 40.

It's uncommon, but some people have allergic reactions to red dye. Regardless of your reasons, if you want to avoid this dye, make sure to check the ingredients list.

And as always, the dose makes the poison. :^)

https://www.webmd.com/diet/what-is-red-40
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/red-dye-40