Allura Red AC is permitted but requires specific warning statements in European Union: declare as "allura red AC (E129)" with the required warning: "may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children".
Allura Red AC (E129, FD&C Red No. 40) is a red azo dye and the most widely used red food colour in the United States, found in sweets, sports drinks, and strawberry-flavoured products. In European Union, Allura Red AC is regulated under FIC Regulation 1169/2011 as a food coloring. One of the six azo dyes covered by the Southampton study. EU Regulation requires the children activity warning on all foods containing allura red.
LabelGuard scans your label for Allura Red AC and all its common names (Red 40, FD&C Red No. 40, CI Food Red 17, E129) to verify correct declaration, required E-numbers, and mandatory warning statements under EU rules.
Start Your Compliance CheckAllura Red AC (E129, FD&C Red No. 40) is a red azo dye and the most widely used red food colour in the United States, found in sweets, sports drinks, and strawberry-flavoured products. It commonly appears in: Red sweets, Sports drinks, Strawberry-flavored products, Maraschino cherries, Grenadine.
EFSA confirmed an ADI of 7 mg/kg body weight per day (2009) and regulators consider it safe at permitted levels. It is covered by the EU/UK mandatory child activity warning, and a small number of children may show sensitivity to it.
Declare as "allura red AC (E129)" in the ingredient list. A mandatory warning must also appear: "may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children". One of the six azo dyes covered by the Southampton study. EU Regulation requires the children activity warning on all foods containing allura red.
Allura Red AC may appear under the following names: Red 40, FD&C Red No. 40, CI Food Red 17, E129. Common hidden sources include: Red sweets, Sports drinks, Strawberry-flavored products, Maraschino cherries, Grenadine, Salad dressings.
Requires mandatory warnings in: EU, UK.
Last updated: 2026-07-20
Disclaimer: This information is for guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult official regulations and seek professional legal advice for specific compliance questions.
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