Sudan dye
A banned industrial red dye that has been found in chilli powder and other spices.
Also: Sudan red, Sudan I, illegal dye, chilli colouring fraud
Sudan dyes are synthetic red-orange colourants made for oils, solvents and shoe polish, not for food. They are classed as likely carcinogens and banned in food. In 2003 a large recall in the United Kingdom followed the discovery of Sudan I in Worcestershire sauce made with contaminated chilli powder, and similar cases have appeared in India and Europe. Dishonest sellers use them to brighten faded or low-grade chilli and paprika. Authorities now test imports and sometimes require pre-shipment certificates. Real chilli colour is a deep brick or brown-red and does not tint oil bright orange immediately. Reputable brands and origin labels help.