FDA Proposes Ban on Brominated Vegetable Oil Due to Health Risks

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently proposed a ban on the use of brominated vegetable oil (BVO), a food ingredient commonly found in certain beverages like Gatorade and Mountain Dew. BVO has been gradually phased out by many large beverage brands due to its potential health risks, including liver, heart, and brain damage. The FDA's proposal comes after studies in rodents revealed the ingredient's toxicity to the thyroid, a gland responsible for regulating blood pressure, heart rate, and metabolism.

BVO is a food additive used primarily to prevent the separation of ingredients in fruit-flavored sports drinks and sodas. It contains bromine, an element also found in flame retardants. While major brands such as Coca-Cola and Pepsi have already eliminated BVO from their products, it can still be found in smaller grocery store brands and some regional beverages like Sun Drop.

The European Union and Japan have already banned the use of BVO in food and drinks, and California recently became the first U.S. state to outlaw the ingredient through legislation signed by Governor Gavin Newsom.

The FDA's decision to propose a ban on BVO is based on studies indicating potential harm to the thyroid, as well as previous research suggesting adverse effects on the liver, heart, and neurological function. Although the FDA had removed BVO from the list of substances considered "Generally Recognized as Safe and Effective" in 1970, it continued to allow its use on an "interim" basis.

The FDA is now accepting public comments on the proposed rule until January 17. If approved, beverage manufacturers will have at least one year to reformulate or relabel their products before the ban is enforced.

In addition to BVO, the FDA is also reevaluating the potential cancer risk associated with red dye No. 3, a synthetic food coloring that was included in California's recent ban on food additives.

The proposed ban on BVO by the FDA highlights the growing concerns over its potential health risks and aims to ensure the safety of consumers.