FD&C Red 40

Caution ColorantSynthetic

FD&C Red 40 is a synthetic colorant used in dietary supplements. Safety rating: Caution. Some individuals may want to exercise caution — consult a healthcare provider if concerned. Found in 12 supplements in the GoodSupp database. FD&C Red 40 is a synthetic food coloring.

12 Products use this
Caution Safety rating
Colorant Category
No Natural origin

Safety Verdict: Caution

Some individuals may experience sensitivity or allergic reactions.

What is FD&C Red 40?

FD&C Red 40 is a synthetic food coloring.

Common Names FD&C Red 40, Allura Red AC
Type Colorant
Origin Synthetic / Manufactured
Safety Rating Caution

Why is FD&C Red 40 used in supplements?

It is used to add color to the supplement.

Role in supplements: Colorant — provides color for product identification. Does not affect efficacy.

Should you be concerned about FD&C Red 40?

Worth noting. FD&C Red 40 has some considerations that certain consumers should be aware of, though it is used widely in the supplement industry.

Some individuals may experience sensitivity or allergic reactions.

Review recommended. Consider your individual health situation and consult a healthcare provider if concerned.

Top-rated products containing FD&C Red 40

These 12 highest-scoring supplements in our database use FD&C Red 40.

Related Ingredients
Frequently Asked Questions
Is FD&C Red 40 safe in supplements?

FD&C Red 40 carries a caution rating in supplements. While it is widely used in the industry, there are some considerations consumers should be aware of. This doesn't necessarily mean it's dangerous, but rather that certain populations (such as pregnant women, children, or people with specific health conditions) may want to exercise extra care. Some individuals may experience sensitivity or allergic reactions. In GoodSupp's database, 12 products contain this ingredient. Consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.

What is FD&C Red 40 and why is it in my supplement?

FD&C Red 40 is a synthetic food coloring. As a colorant, it provides visual identification for the product. While it doesn't affect efficacy, some consumers prefer supplements without artificial colors. It appears in 12 products in the GoodSupp database.

Is FD&C Red 40 natural or synthetic?

FD&C Red 40 is synthetically produced, meaning it is manufactured through chemical processes rather than directly extracted from natural sources. Synthetic ingredients are extremely common in supplements and are not inherently less safe than natural alternatives. In many cases, synthetic production allows for higher purity and more consistent quality. The FDA regulates both natural and synthetic supplement ingredients under the same safety standards. GoodSupp rates ingredients based on their actual safety data regardless of whether they're natural or synthetic.

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Disclaimer: GoodSupp provides independent supplement quality analysis for informational purposes only. Scores are generated algorithmically based on ingredient profiles, brand certifications, and public records. This is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Product data is sourced from manufacturer labels and public databases. GoodSupp is not affiliated with any supplement brand.