The Fizz Has Gone Out: FDA Revokes Authorization of Brominated Vegetable Oil (BVO) in Food
For decades, a seemingly innocuous ingredient, brominated vegetable oil (BVO), has lurked in the shadows of our beloved soft drinks. Though often shrouded in mystery, BVO’s role as an emulsifier, preventing the separation of flavors in citrus sodas, was widely accepted. However, recent investigations have unearthed a hidden truth about this ingredient, prompting the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to take decisive action. After years of mounting evidence and public pressure, the FDA has officially revoked its authorization for BVO in food products, effectively removing it from the market.
A Questionable Past and Rising Concerns:
For years, BVO was classified as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS), a designation conferred on ingredients with a long history of safe use. Despite this classification, the FDA, in 1970, tightened regulations surrounding BVO’s use. This move was partly driven by the fact that bromine, the element used to modify vegetable oil in BVO, is known to have potential negative effects on the body.
Studies over the years have revealed a concerning link between bromine-containing compounds and thyroid hormone disruption. These compounds, including those used in flame retardants, can interfere with the delicate balance of hormones produced by the thyroid, a vital gland responsible for regulating metabolism, growth, and development.
Endocrine disrupters, substances that disrupt hormonal functions, are a growing concern for public health. Studies suggest they may increase the risk of various chronic health problems, particularly during sensitive periods like puberty and pregnancy. While bromine can accumulate in the body over time, the impact of BVO consumption on human health remained unclear.
Public Scrutiny and a Shift in Approach:
The public’s growing awareness of BVO’s potential dangers ignited a wave of scrutiny, ultimately leading to a pivotal moment in 2013. PepsiCo, the company behind Gatorade, responded to public pressure by removing BVO from its products. This decision triggered a chain reaction, compelling the FDA to reassess the available data and conduct its own research on BVO, collaborating with the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences’ Division of Translational Toxicology.
New Evidence and a Final Decision:
The FDA’s investigation corroborated previous findings, revealing that oral exposure to BVO raises bromine levels in bodily tissues. Moreover, studies demonstrated that high doses of BVO can negatively affect the thyroid health of rats. Although the specific levels required to impact rat thyroid function were considered high, they were closer to realistic human consumption levels than previously thought.
This new understanding prompted the FDA to take action. In November 2022, the FDA proposed revoking the authorization for BVO in food, citing the unresolved safety concerns and the mounting evidence that BVO could pose a risk to human health. The final decision to revoke BVO’s authorization was announced in February 2023, effectively marking the end of this ingredient’s presence in food products in the United States.
The Aftermath: A Sweeter Future?
The FDA’s decision has far-reaching implications for the beverage industry. While many soft drink companies, including Coca-Cola, had already removed BVO from their citrus drinks, some brands continued to rely on BVO, Sun Drop being a prominent example. However, with the FDA’s official ban, the use of BVO in all food products, including soft drinks, will be prohibited in the US.
The future of BVO is uncertain. It remains banned as a food additive in many countries, but its continued use in some sectors, like the beverage industry, begs the question: is a complete ban inevitable?
This episode underscores the importance of transparency and open communication between regulatory bodies, manufacturers, and consumers. It highlights the power of public awareness and the need for continuous scrutiny of ingredients in our food.
While celebrating the removal of BVO from our food supply, it’s crucial to remember that this victory is a reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance. We must remain aware of the potential dangers of hidden chemicals and continue to demand transparency from manufacturers to ensure the health and well-being of ourselves and our families. The FDA’s decision is a significant step towards a safer and more informed food system. As consumers, we must continue to advocate for our right to know what’s in our food and to demand products made with the highest possible standards of safety.
