FDA plans to prohibit the use of a soda ingredient.
The FDA Proposes Ban on Brominated Vegetable Oil in Food
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has taken a significant step to protect public health by proposing a ban on brominated vegetable oil (BVO) in food. This move comes after studies conducted in collaboration with the National Institutes of Health (NIH) revealed potential adverse health effects in humans.
The FDA’s decision was based on a study published in the Food and Chemical Toxicology journal, which investigated the effects of BVO in rats. The research found that high doses of BVO disrupted the hypothalamic–pituitary–thyroid (HPT) axis, which plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism and brain development.
The study’s results showed bioaccumulation of bromine and toxic effects on the thyroid. This led the FDA to propose revoking the regulation that allows BVO use in food items.
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The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has welcomed the FDA’s proposal, emphasizing the potential health hazards associated with BVO. Drinks with citrus flavors are more likely to contain BVO, and brominated compounds have been linked to harm to the nervous system.
According to EWG, BVO can build up in the body and has been connected to various problems such as headaches, skin irritation, fatigue, and loss of muscle coordination and memory.
Although BVO was removed from the FDA’s “Generally Recognized as Safe” (GRAS) list in 1970, it was still allowed as a stabilizer in fruit-flavored drinks. The FDA’s proposed ban will bring the United States in line with Japan and Europe, where BVO is already prohibited.
BVO Regulation and Use
BVO is a vegetable oil modified with a reddish-brown chemical called bromine, which is also found in flame retardants. The FDA authorized its use in small amounts in some beverages to prevent the separation of citrus flavor.
While major beverage companies like Coca-Cola and PepsiCo have replaced BVO with alternatives, some regional brands still use it. Once the FDA’s proposed ban takes effect, these products will be prohibited nationwide.
The FDA’s decision aligns with California’s recent approval of a law banning certain food additives, including BVO. The law aims to protect consumers from potentially harmful ingredients and will come into effect in 2027.
Opposition to California’s ban has been voiced by the National Confectioners Association, which argues that it will create confusion and increase food costs. However, the FDA recognizes and supports California’s efforts to regulate these additives.
The FDA’s proposal reflects its commitment to ensuring the safety of food ingredients and additives. By continuously reviewing and reassessing the science behind these substances, the agency aims to protect public health and make informed regulatory decisions.
To avoid consuming food items containing BVO, individuals can check ingredient labels for terms like “brominated vegetable oil” or references to the food source from which the oil was extracted.
The FDA estimates that the proposed rule would impact a maximum of 2.5 percent of small businesses within the beverage manufacturing industry.
What are some potential health risks associated with the consumption of BVO?
Oved from the FDA’s list of Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) substances for direct addition to food in 1970, it was still allowed as an additive in certain beverages. BVO is used as an emulsifier in citrus-flavored beverages to ensure that the flavor oils are evenly distributed throughout the drink. However, concerns about its safety have persisted for years.
Several petitions from consumer advocacy groups and concerned individuals have been submitted to the FDA, urging them to ban BVO. These petitions have highlighted the potential health risks of the substance and called for its removal from the food supply. The FDA’s decision to propose a ban is a direct response to these concerns.
While the proposed ban on BVO is a positive step towards protecting public health, it is important to note that further research is needed to fully understand the extent of the health risks associated with this additive. The FDA’s proposal highlights the need for additional studies to better understand the effects of BVO on human health.
In the meantime, consumers can take steps to reduce their exposure to BVO by reading food labels and avoiding products that contain the additive. Choosing beverages that do not contain BVO, or opting for natural and organic alternatives, can help minimize the potential health risks.
Additionally, the FDA’s decision serves as a reminder of the importance of regulatory agencies in monitoring and evaluating the safety of food additives. As new information becomes available, it is crucial for these agencies to take action to protect consumers and ensure the safety of the food supply.
In conclusion, the FDA’s proposal to ban brominated vegetable oil in food is a significant step towards safeguarding public health. The findings of studies conducted in collaboration with the NIH have raised concerns about the potential adverse health effects of BVO, particularly its impact on the thyroid. While further research is needed, consumers can take proactive measures to reduce their exposure to BVO. Ultimately, the FDA’s decision underscores the importance of continued vigilance in assessing and regulating the safety of food additives to protect the well-being of individuals and communities.
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