The Lab
Specimen No. 0065
AvoidSyntheticfood additivedye

Artificial Food Dyes (Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1)

red 40 · fd&c red 40 · yellow 5

Petroleum-derived synthetic dyes used in food. Several are banned or require warning labels in the EU. Meta-analyses link them to hyperactivity in children.

high confidence
Researched April 18, 2026

Concerns

  • Meta-analyses show increased hyperactivity in children (Southampton study)
  • EU requires "may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children" warning for Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6
  • Several have been linked to potential carcinogenicity in animal studies [inference]
  • Red 40 contains benzidine — a human carcinogen — as a trace contaminant

Regulatory flags

  • EU requires behavioral warning label on foods containing these dyes
  • Several FD&C dyes not approved in EU

Commonly found in

CandyCerealSports drinksSodaMaraschino cherriesProcessed snacks

Research disclaimer: This rating is based on available peer-reviewed research and regulatory assessments at the time of publication. It is not medical advice. Consult a qualified professional for personal health or skin concerns.

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LabelCleared verdict badge: Artificial Food Dyes (Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1) — Avoid
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