The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has proposed a ban on brominated vegetable oil (BVO), a common ingredient in fruity fizzy drinks and sports drinks. This recommendation comes in response to increasing concerns about the health risks associated with BVO in food and beverages.
According to the FDA, research conducted in collaboration with the National Institutes of Health has shown that consuming BVO can be harmful to human health. One of the main health risks of BVO is its potential toxicity to the thyroid, which is responsible for regulating blood pressure, heart rhythm, and metabolism. Previous research has also suggested that BVO consumption may lead to neurological problems, liver damage, and cardiac issues.
The FDA stated, “Based on these data and the remaining unresolved safety questions, the FDA can no longer conclude that the use of BVO in food is safe.” The agency is concerned about the potential harm associated with BVO and is taking steps to address this issue.
To prevent citrus taste separation, the FDA has allowed the use of BVO in beverages such as Gatorade and Mountain Dew. However, in response to health concerns, major companies like Coca-Cola and Pepsi have already replaced BVO with alternative ingredients in their products. Despite this shift by larger corporations, BVO is still present in some smaller grocery store brands and regional beverages.
The Center for Science in the Public Interest, an independent consumer advocacy group, has also expressed concerns about the potential health effects of BVO. They have highlighted the possibility of BVO accumulating in organs such as the liver, brain, and other vital organs, as well as leaving residues in body fat. The group also claims that BVO can be transferred from a nursing mother to her nursing child through breast milk, leading to heart lesions, fatty liver changes, and stunted growth and behavior.
Public comments on the proposed BVO ban will be accepted by the FDA until January 17, 2024. The ban has already been implemented in the European Union and Japan, reflecting global safety concerns.
In addition to addressing BVO, the FDA is also reevaluating the potential cancer risk associated with red dye No. 3, a synthetic food coloring. California Governor Gavin Newsom recently approved legislation banning the production and distribution of four chemicals, including those found in up to 12,000 food items.
If approved, the FDA intends to give beverage manufacturers a year to rebrand or reformulate their drinks before enforcing the BVO ban. The agency is committed to taking action against harmful food ingredients and ensuring the safety of consumers.
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