Last reviewed May 2026 · 1 min read
Is Allura Red AC vegan?
Also known as: Red 40, FD&C Red No. 40, Food Red 17
E-number: E129
Vegan
Suitable for a vegan diet.
Yes — It is derived from petroleum (coal tar), not from insects like carmine.
01 · The basics
What is Allura Red AC?
A popular synthetic red food dye used to give foods and drinks a prominent red or pink color.
02 · The source
Where it comes from
It is derived from petroleum (coal tar), not from insects like carmine. While controversial for health reasons, it contains no animal products.
03 · Alternatives
Best vegan alternatives
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Frequently asked
FAQ
Is Red 40 the same as crushed bugs?
No. Red 40 is completely synthetic and petroleum-based. Carmine (E120) is the red dye made from crushed insects.
Is Red 40 cruelty-free?
While vegan by ingredients, it was historically tested on animals for safety profiling, which causes some strict vegans to avoid it.
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