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Ingredient Guide

🇬🇧 Allura Red AC on Food Labels in UK

Allura Red AC is permitted but requires specific warning statements in United Kingdom: declare as "allura red AC (E129)" with the required warning: "may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children".

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What the Rule Is

Red azo dye used in confectionery, beverages, and sports drinks. In United Kingdom, Allura Red AC is regulated under Retained EU Law & UK FIC as a food coloring. UK retains the EU mandatory warning requirement. FSA guidance confirms this applies to all food products containing allura red.

What You Must Include
  • Declare as "allura red AC (E129)" in the ingredient list
  • Include the required warning: "may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children"
  • Declare with functional class: "coloring" and E-number E129
  • Review all compound ingredients for hidden sources
  • Cross-check all compound ingredients and sub-ingredients for hidden sources
Common Violations
  • Missing the mandatory warning: "may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children"
  • Using an ambiguous or abbreviated name that does not identify Allura Red AC
  • Omitting the E-number E129 where required
  • Not updating the label after recipe changes involving this ingredient
  • Failing to check compound ingredients for hidden Allura Red AC content
Examples: Compliant vs Non-Compliant

Compliant Examples

"coloring: allura red AC (E129)" + warning: "may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children"
"allura red AC (E129)" in ingredient list
Full ingredient line: "Ingredients: ... allura red AC (E129) ..."

Non-Compliant Examples

Using a synonym (FD&C Red No. 40, CI Food Red 17) without the approved declaration name
Missing the required warning statement near the ingredient declaration
"Natural [ingredient category]" without specific name where specific name is required
How LabelGuard Checks This

LabelGuard scans your label for Allura Red AC and all its common names (Red 40, FD&C Red No. 40, CI Food Red 17, E129) to verify correct declaration, required E-numbers, and mandatory warning statements under UK rules.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How must Allura Red AC be declared on food labels in UK?

Declare as "allura red AC (E129)" in the ingredient list. A mandatory warning must also appear: "may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children". UK retains the EU mandatory warning requirement. FSA guidance confirms this applies to all food products containing allura red.

What are the common synonyms and hidden sources of Allura Red AC?

Allura Red AC may appear under the following names: Red 40, FD&C Red No. 40, CI Food Red 17, E129. Common hidden sources include: Red sweets, Sports drinks, Strawberry-flavored products, Maraschino cherries, Grenadine, Salad dressings.

Is Allura Red AC banned or restricted in any market?

Requires mandatory warnings in: EU, UK.

Regulation Sources

Last updated: 2026-04-01

Disclaimer: This information is for guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult official regulations and seek professional legal advice for specific compliance questions.

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