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What is Red 40? Other food coloring up for possible ban in US

ABC News
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Red Dye No. 40 , a synthetic food dye that's used to achieve a bright crimson color in condiments and candy alike, has been a hot topic among policy makers and food safety advocates in the U.S. Red 40 is one of the nine " Trusted Source " certified color additives the FDA approves for use in foods and beverages.

A California law outlawed the ingredient at foods served in public schools.

The EPA and WHO list Red 40 as "low concern" and note that most people don’t typically take in enough of it to cause a problem. However, the European Union requires a warning label on products that contain Red Dye 40 that reads, "may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children.".