Digestoa
Additive · Colour

Allura Red AC (E129)

Allura Red AC (E129) is a colour that Digestoa flags as high risk. Common concerns include hyperactivity in children.

Digestoa riskHigh risk
TypeColour (azo)
Found inSweets, soft drinks, breakfast cereals, sauces and brightly coloured snacks.
ConcernsHyperactivity in children · Allergic reactions

What is Allura Red AC?

Allura Red AC (Red 40) is a synthetic azo dye. It's one of the 'Southampton six' colours linked to hyperactivity in some children.

Is Allura Red AC bad for you?

Digestoa flags Allura Red AC as high risk. Regulators permit it, but safety reviews and studies have raised concerns including hyperactivity in children, allergic reactions. How often you eat it matters more than a single exposure.

What foods contain Allura Red AC?

Sweets, soft drinks, breakfast cereals, sauces and brightly coloured snacks..

Digestoa's take

You don't need to panic over a single product that contains Allura Red AC. But it's a useful flag: when you see E129 on a label it often signals a more processed product, and there's usually a cleaner alternative.

Safer swaps

Choose products coloured with beetroot (E162), paprika (E160c) or other natural extracts.

Frequently asked questions

Is E129 the same as Allura Red AC?
Yes — E129 is the international additive (E-number) code for Allura Red AC.
Is Allura Red AC bad for you?
Digestoa flags Allura Red AC (E129) as high risk. It's permitted in food, but it's associated with concerns such as hyperactivity in children.
What are the side effects of Allura Red AC?
Reported concerns include: Hyperactivity in children; Allergic reactions.
What foods contain Allura Red AC?
Sweets, soft drinks, breakfast cereals, sauces and brightly coloured snacks..
How can I avoid Allura Red AC?
Check the ingredients list for "Allura Red AC" or "E129", or scan the product with Digestoa to see if it's present before you buy.

Related colour additives

Titanium dioxide (E171)Tartrazine (E102)Quinoline Yellow (E104)Sunset Yellow FCF (E110)Azorubine / Carmoisine (E122)Ponceau 4R (E124)

Risk ratings reflect Digestoa's editorial assessment synthesising EFSA/IARC opinions and peer-reviewed research. Informational only — not medical advice.