Is CI 16035 (Red 40 / Allura Red) Safe During Pregnancy?
The facts: CI 16035 (Red 40 / Allura Red) is not banned worldwide, but some health agencies have flagged concerns. We can't tell you whether it's safe for your pregnancy — that's a conversation for your OB-GYN or midwife. What we can do is show you the regulatory facts and flag CI 16035 (Red 40 / Allura Red) on any product's label so you can decide with your provider. Commonly found in: Various red-colored body washes and shampoos.
TL;DR: CI 16035 (Red 40 / Allura Red) is allowed in the EU and allowed in the US. Here's what to know if you're pregnant.
CI 16035 (Red 40 / Allura Red): regulatory status at a glance
| EU status | Allowed |
|---|---|
| US status | Allowed |
| Risk level (regulatory) | low |
| Where it shows up | Various red-colored body washes and shampoos |
What is CI 16035 (Red 40 / Allura Red)?
CI 16035 (Allura Red AC) is a red azo dye that is one of the most widely used synthetic colorants in both food and cosmetics. In cosmetics it provides vivid red coloring in products for external use.
Why is CI 16035 (Red 40 / Allura Red) used in personal-care products?
Provides red and pink coloring in shampoos, bath products, soaps, and some leave-on products. Its bright, stable color makes it a staple in colored personal care items.
What regulators have flagged about CI 16035 (Red 40 / Allura Red)
Topical cosmetic use of CI 16035 is considered safe. Systemic absorption from properly formulated rinse-off or leave-on products is minimal. Unlike food consumption (where concerns include potential behavioral effects in hyperactive children), topical cosmetic exposure does not raise the same issues. The CIR and FDA have assessed it as safe for cosmetic use. It is not a carcinogen for topical applications.
For educational use only. This page summarizes the regulatory status of CI 16035 (Red 40 / Allura Red) with citations to the primary sources below. It is not medical advice and is not pregnancy-specific medical guidance. Consult your OB-GYN or midwife for decisions about your pregnancy.
Pregnancy-conscious swaps free from CI 16035 (Red 40 / Allura Red) →
Audited products that don't contain CI 16035 (Red 40 / Allura Red).
As an Amazon Associate, BannedPantry earns from qualifying purchases. This never influences our ratings — see Affiliate Disclosure.
CI 16035 (Red 40 / Allura Red) and pregnancy: common questions
Is CI 16035 (Red 40 / Allura Red) banned anywhere?
CI 16035 (Red 40 / Allura Red) is not currently banned worldwide, though some agencies have flagged concerns. See the sources below.
Should I avoid CI 16035 (Red 40 / Allura Red) during pregnancy?
That's a decision for you and your OB-GYN or midwife — we don't give medical advice. What we can tell you is the regulatory status above. Many people choose to limit additives during pregnancy out of caution; bring this page and its sources to your next appointment.
What products contain CI 16035 (Red 40 / Allura Red)?
Commonly found in Various red-colored body washes and shampoos. Scan any product's barcode to check its label for CI 16035 (Red 40 / Allura Red).
What can I use instead of CI 16035 (Red 40 / Allura Red)?
Carmine (CI 75470), beet extract (CI 77269), or carrot extract for red/pink coloring with natural origin. See the pregnancy-conscious swaps below.
Scan any product's barcode and instantly see if it contains CI 16035 (Red 40 / Allura Red) or other ingredients restricted overseas.
Scan a product free →Other ingredients to check during pregnancy
Sources
- FDA Color Additives in Cosmetics — Red 40 — U.S. Food and Drug Administration
- EWG Skin Deep: CI 16035 — Environmental Working Group
Our scores are never influenced by brands. Last updated 6/11/2026.