How Dangerous Is Red 40

While the consensus from health organizations is that Red Dye 40 poses little health risk, the dye has been implicated in allergies and worsened behavior in children with ADHD. The dye goes by several names and is commonly found in dairy products, sweets, snacks, baked goods, and beverages.

Why is red 40 so bad?

The three most widely used culprits-Yellow 5, Yellow 6 and Red 40-contain compounds, including benzidine and 4-aminobiphenyl, that research has linked with cancer. Research has also associated food dyes with problems in children including allergies, hyperactivity, learning impairment, irritability and aggressiveness.

What does red 40 do to people?

Additionally, both adults and children have reported an upset stomach, migraines, jitteriness, nervousness, and inability to concentrate after a high intake of Red Dye 40. The CSPI released a report that says artificial food dyes pose a “rainbow of risks,” including everything from allergies to cancer.