FD&C Red No. 40

Caution ColorantSynthetic

FD&C Red No. 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 3 supplements in the GoodSupp database. FD&C Red No. 40 is a synthetic food coloring.

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

Safety Verdict: Caution

May cause allergic reactions in some individuals.

What is FD&C Red No. 40?

FD&C Red No. 40 is a synthetic food coloring.

Common Names FD&C Red No. 40, Allura Red AC
Type Colorant
Origin Synthetic / Manufactured
Safety Rating Caution

Why is FD&C Red No. 40 used in supplements?

It is used as a red colorant.

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

Should you be concerned about FD&C Red No. 40?

Worth noting. FD&C Red No. 40 has some considerations that certain consumers should be aware of, though it is used widely in the supplement industry.

May cause allergic reactions in some individuals.

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

Top-rated products containing FD&C Red No. 40

These 3 highest-scoring supplements in our database use FD&C Red No. 40.

Related Ingredients
Frequently Asked Questions
Is FD&C Red No. 40 safe in supplements?

FD&C Red No. 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. May cause allergic reactions in some individuals. In GoodSupp's database, 3 products contain this ingredient. Consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.

What is FD&C Red No. 40 and why is it in my supplement?

FD&C Red No. 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 3 products in the GoodSupp database.

Is FD&C Red No. 40 natural or synthetic?

FD&C Red No. 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.