Candy Without Red Dye: Healthier Alternatives for Your Sweet Tooth

The Controversy Over Red Dye in Candy

Red dye, specifically Red Dye #3 or erythrosine, is commonly used to give candy that bright red coloring that we have come to expect. However, there are health concerns over the safety of this additive that have many consumers seeking out alternatives made without artificial dyes.

Calls to Remove Red Dye from Candy

Consumer advocacy groups have called on candy manufacturers to remove artificial red dyes from their products, citing studies that have linked them to cancer in animals. Specifically, Red Dye #3 has come under scrutiny after research showed thyroid tumors developed in rats that were fed high doses over their lifetime.

The amounts of dye used in the animal tests were much higher than what is typically consumed by humans. Still, the possibility that even low doses could increase cancer risk with long-term exposure has led some consumers to call for the removal of red dye from their favorite candies.

Candy Brands that Contain Red Dye

Some of the most popular seasonal candy brands that have traditionally used red dye include:

• Sweethearts conversation hearts
• Brach's cinnamon red hot hearts
• Peeps marshmallow chicks and bunnies
• Mike and Ike fruit chews

In recent years, several major brands have reformulated their products in response to consumer demand for more natural alternatives without synthetic dyes. However, there are still many big name candies that continue to use controversial food colorings like Red Dye #3.

Candy Options Without Red Dye

The good news is that there are now more all-natural candy options than ever before that do not contain any artificial colors or synthetic dyes like Red Dye #3. Here are some great tasting red candy alternatives to consider:

YumEarth Organic Pops

YumEarth makes a line of organic lollipops that are naturally colored and flavored. Their fruity pops get their vibrant red hue solely from antioxidant-rich ingredients like radishes, beets, strawberries, and raspberries. They have pomegranate, cherry, and other red fruit flavors kids will love.

Surf Sweets Fruit Snacks

Surf Sweets gummy candies and fruit snacks are made with real fruit juices and purees, providing a serving of fruit in every pack. Both their berry and cherry flavors deliver that bright red color without artificial coloring. Their products are also free of high fructose corn syrup, gelatin, and gluten.

Annie's Organic Bunny Grahams

For a healthier version of a classic kids' snack, look no further than Annie's organic crunchy graham bunny cookies. Their honey and cinnamon variety has a delicious reddish-brown hue from natural spices and colors. Annie's never uses synthetic dyes, plus they are made without artificial preservatives or flavors.

SmartSweets Sweet Fish

SmartSweets makes low sugar gummy candies sweetened with stevia and erythritol. Their sweet fish come in a variety of fruit flavors like cherry, peach, and berry. They achieve their vibrant red color using fruit and vegetable juices and natural colors from radish, apple, and black carrot concentrates.

What About Candy With Natural Red Dye?

There are some candies on the market that now use natural colors to replace synthetic dyes like Red Dye #3 while still providing that vibrant red color. Colors derived from fruits, vegetables, and spices are not believed to carry the same health risks.

Potential Issues with Natural Red Dyes

However, some health experts argue that even natural colorings do not provide any nutritional value and can lead to hyperactivity in children when consumed in large amounts. There are also children who may experience sensitivities even to natural food dyes.

For this reason, some parents prefer candy that gets is red hue strictly from the fruits, berries, beets, or spices used rather than adding any type of separate coloring, natural or artificial. This allows the ingredients to provide flavor and nutrition as well.

Reading Ingredient Labels on Candy

Reading the ingredient label on candy packaging is important to understand exactly what is used to color the product. In some cases, while the marketing may boast "no artificial colors or flavors," the ingredient list can still contain generic additives like "color added" or "natural coloring."

Ideally, you want to see ingredients like strawberry, cherry, beet, radish, raspberry, or cinnamon listed that provide both natural color and other nutritional benefits. Steer clear of any candies with red dye specifically listed, whether numbered Red Dye #3 or generically referred to as "Red 40" or simply "red color added."

Protecting Your Health While Enjoying Candy

Candy is meant to be enjoyed, but moderation is key, especially for children. When indulging in sweets, be sure to check the ingredients carefully and select options without artificial dyes whenever possible. Stay updated on the latest health warnings related to food additives and what companies are doing to remove concerning chemicals from their candy products.

There are now many delicious alternatives to your classic red candy favorites made without synthetic colors. Vibrant fruit purees, vegetable juices, and spices can provide safer, natural sources of festive red hues. With a little label reading and brand research, you can enjoy seasonal candy that keeps your health a priority while still satisfying your sweet tooth.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.