Atlanta, Georgia – The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has made a significant decision to ban the use of brominated vegetable oil, a commonly used food additive in citrus-flavored beverages. The FDA’s conclusion that brominated vegetable oil is no longer safe for consumption has led to this action.
Brominated vegetable oil, also known as BVO, has been utilized as a stabilizer in citrus drinks, preventing flavor separation. Initially authorized by the FDA for use in small amounts, recent findings have prompted the agency to revoke this authorization. The ban on BVO follows similar actions taken by other countries, including the United Kingdom, the European Union, India, and Japan.
Studies conducted in collaboration with the National Institutes of Health revealed potential adverse health effects in humans due to BVO. Specifically, animal studies indicated toxic effects on the thyroid gland, leading to concerns about hypothyroidism, weight gain, and depression. The FDA’s decision to ban BVO in food items will take effect in August 2024, giving companies a year to comply with the new regulations.
While most major soda brands have already removed BVO from their formulas, some beverages, such as Sun Drop, still contain the additive. Companies like Keurig Dr Pepper and Walmart are actively reformulating products to eliminate BVO, in line with federal regulations. Other store-brand sodas have also been identified as containing BVO, prompting retailers like HEB and Giant to consider reformulation.
Consumers can identify BVO in beverages by checking the ingredient list for “brominated vegetable oil” or specific types of oil. Cloudy appearances in drinks may also indicate the presence of BVO. It is essential for consumers to be vigilant and look out for citrus-flavored beverages that may contain BVO, particularly in off-brand or generic sodas.
Popular brands like Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, and Gatorade have already ensured that their products are free from BVO. This move aligns with the industry trend of eliminating potentially harmful additives from food and beverage products. The ban on BVO highlights the importance of food safety regulations and the need for companies to prioritize consumer health and well-being.