E129

Allura Red AC (Red 40)

Synthetic Red Dye in Sweets & Drinks

What is E129 (Allura Red AC)?

E129 is Allura Red AC, a synthetic red dye made from petroleum (coal tar derivative).

Also known as:

• Red 40 (US name)
• Allura Red
• FD&C Red No. 40

Why it's used:

• Bright red colour in sweets, drinks, and desserts
• Cheaper than natural alternatives (like beetroot extract)
• Stable – doesn't fade with heat or light
• Popular replacement for banned dyes (E123 Amaranth)

Where is E129 Found?

Sweets & Confectionery:

• Red gummy bears and jelly sweets
• Red liquorice
• Lollipops
• Fruit-flavoured chews

Drinks:

• Red soft drinks (strawberry, cherry flavours)
• Energy drinks
• Flavoured squash and cordials

Other Foods:

• Ice lollies and ice cream
• Cake decorations and icing
• Dessert mixes (jelly, Angel Delight)
• Some sauces and condiments
• Breakfast cereals (Froot Loops)

Non-Food Uses:

• Medicines (particularly children's liquid medications)
• Cosmetics

Health Concerns

1. Hyperactivity in Children (Southampton Study)

The 2007 Southampton Study tested E129 alongside other synthetic dyes (E102, E110, E122, E124) and found:

• Increased hyperactivity in children aged 3 and 8-9
• Reduced attention span
• Effects seen in general population (not just children with ADHD)

Result: UK now requires warning labels on products containing these dyes.

2. Allergic Reactions

Some people experience allergic reactions to E129:

• Hives and skin rashes
• Itching
• Facial swelling (rare)

Cross-reactivity: People allergic to aspirin may also react to E129.

3. Cancer Risk (Animal Studies)

• High doses caused tumours in mice (1970s studies)
• Human evidence: No clear link to cancer in humans
• Some advocacy groups (CSPI) call for stricter regulation

4. Asthma Worsening

May trigger asthma symptoms in people with existing asthma or aspirin sensitivity.

The Southampton Study Explained

This 2007 UK study was pivotal in changing regulations:

• What they tested: Children given drinks with synthetic dyes (including E129) + preservative E211
• What they found: Increased hyperactivity measured by parents and teachers
• Result: EU required warning labels on products containing these dyes
• Controversy: Effects were modest, and some scientists questioned the methodology

Regulatory Status

UK/EU: Approved with ADI of 7mg per kg body weight. Warning label required since 2010.

US: FDA approved (called Red 40). No warning label required.

Norway & Iceland: Banned

Who Should Avoid E129?

❌ Must Avoid:

• Children with ADHD – may worsen symptoms
• People with aspirin allergy – cross-reactivity risk
• Known allergy to synthetic dyes

⚠️ Consider Limiting:

• All children – precautionary approach based on Southampton Study
• People with asthma – may trigger symptoms
• Anyone avoiding synthetic additives

Natural Alternatives

Many companies now use natural red colourings instead:

• Beetroot extract (purple-red)
• Carmine (E120) – from cochineal insects (not vegan)
• Paprika extract (E160c) – orange-red
• Lycopene – from tomatoes

The Bottom Line

• ⚠️ Approved but controversial
• ⚠️ UK warning label required – may affect children's behaviour
• ⚠️ Hyperactivity concerns – Southampton Study showed links
• ⚠️ Allergic reactions possible – especially aspirin-sensitive people
• ⚠️ Cancer risk unclear – animal studies inconclusive for humans
• ✅ Many brands switching to natural alternatives

Our recommendation: Parents should consider limiting E129 in children's diets. Choose products with natural colourings (beetroot, paprika) when available.

Last updated: February 2026