Pumpkin

Color

Red 40 (Allura Red)

Synthetic color additive.

Moderate concern · Limited evidence

Some children may be sensitive to mixtures of synthetic colors.

Consider limiting, or compare alternatives.

Reviewed Oct 2, 2026

Evidence and sources

Some studies found that mixes of synthetic colors were linked to more hyperactive behavior in some children. The EU requires foods with Allura Red (Red 40) to carry a warning about effects on activity and attention in children. FDA's position is that most children have no adverse effects, though some may be sensitive.

Studies tested mixtures and amounts that may differ from this product, and the amount here isn't declared.

Limited evidence · Presence only; amount unknown · Children who may be sensitive

  1. Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 on food additives, Annex V (labelling of certain food colours), European Union
  2. Food additives and hyperactive behaviour in 3-year-old and 8/9-year-old children in the community: a randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial, The Lancet (McCann et al.)
  3. Health Effects Assessment: Potential Neurobehavioral Effects of Synthetic Food Dyes in Children, California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment