FDA Suggests Elimination of Controversial Additive in Beverages

The FDA has advocated for the removal of brominated vegetable oil (BVO) from food products, citing new research that deems the additive unsafe for human consumption. This ingredient, previously common in sports drinks and sodas to maintain a homogeneous mixture, has bromine in its composition—an element also found in some flame retardants.

Despite its gradual phase-out from major beverage lines, including those from Coca-Cola and Pepsi, BVO continues to be used in certain smaller brands and regional drinks, such as Sun Drop soda. Countries like those in the European Union and Japan have already prohibited its use in foodstuffs.

Following the move by California Governor Gavin Newsom last month to ban BVO along with three other food additives, the FDA has now pointed to rodent studies indicating BVO’s toxicity to the thyroid—a crucial organ in regulating vital body functions. Historical data also suggest its potential harm to the liver, heart, and nervous system.

The FDA’s statement expressed an inability to assure BVO’s safety, leading to the proposed prohibition. Notably, the FDA had previously removed BVO from its “Generally Recognized as Safe and Effective” list in 1970, allowing its interim use since then.

Public feedback on this proposal will be open until January 17, and should the ban be instituted, beverage manufacturers will receive a minimum of one year to adjust their product formulas or labels prior to enforcement.

Additionally, the FDA is reviewing the carcinogenic risks of red dye No. 3, another ingredient targeted by California’s recent legislative actions on food additives.

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