The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a ban on the use of brominated vegetable oil (BVO) in all food and beverages, citing safety concerns. This decision follows a series of studies conducted in collaboration with the National Institute of Health (NIH) that revealed the ingredient’s adverse health effects.
BVO, an oil modified with bromine, was previously permitted in small amounts by the FDA and primarily used in beverages to prevent citrus flavouring from separating. However, recent findings have prompted a re-evaluation of its safety.
The ban will take effect on August 2, 2024. After this date, companies will have one year to reformulate, relabel, and cease the sale of products containing BVO.
Although BVO is already absent from many popular U.S. soda brands, the USDA database indicates that around 600 food and beverage products still contain the ingredient. Examples include SunDrop from Keurig Dr. Pepper, Orangette orange soda available at Walmart, and two soda brands from Giant grocery stores.
Health studies have linked BVO to hyperthyroidism, which results in insufficient thyroid hormone production, leading to weight gain and, in some cases, depression. Excessive consumption of BVO can also harm the central nervous system.
Prior to the FDA’s national ban, California became the first state to prohibit BVO in October 2023, along with potassium bromate, propylparaben, and red dye 3. Following California’s lead, other states, including Missouri, Washington, New York, and Illinois, have enacted similar bans.
The FDA’s ruling reflects an increasing awareness and response to food safety concerns, aiming to protect consumers from potentially harmful ingredients.