Key Things to Understand about the FDA's Proposed Ban on Brominated Vegetable Oil
The FDA has proposed banning brominated vegetable oil in food, sparking concerns and questions CNN Wellness expert Dr Leana Wen provides valuable insights on the issue Find out what you need to know about this potential regulation change
Join CNNs Eat, But Better: Mediterranean Style and discover a delightful and endorsed dietary approach that will enhance your lifelong well-being. The nationwide authorization permitting the utilization of brominated vegetable oil (BVO) in food is being proposed for revocation by the US Food and Drug Administration.
After conducting a thorough examination of the evidence, the FDA stated on November 2 that "the use of BVO in food is now deemed unsafe due to the findings from studies carried out in partnership with the National Institutes of Health (NIH). These studies revealed the potential for adverse health effects in humans."
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Inquire about the use and presence of BVO in foods, as well as evidence supporting the revocation of its authorization. Additionally, inquire about red dye No. 3 as another food additive that California has banned, along with BVO and two other additives. Consider the level of concern individuals should have regarding products containing BVO and red dye No. 3, and suggest possible steps to minimize associated risks. To address these queries, an interview was conducted with Dr. Leana Wen, a reputable medical expert in the field of wellness for CNN. Dr. Wen possesses extensive experience as an emergency physician and is a health policy and management professor at the Milken Institute School of Public Health at George Washington University. Previously, she served as the health commissioner for Baltimore.
CNN: Can you explain what brominated vegetable oil, also known as BVO, is and its purpose in various food products?
This additive has been in existence since the 1920s. In 1970, the FDA responded to concerns regarding potential safety issues, consequently eliminating it from its "generally recognized as safe" list, also referred to as GRAS. However, due to insufficient data to completely withdraw its authorization, federal regulators opted for an intermediate measure: restricting its usage to a reduced level and solely as an emulsifier in fruit-flavored beverages.
Brominated vegetable oil is added in minimal quantities to certain citrus-flavored beverages to prevent the separation and floating of the citrus flavoring on the surface of the drink.
Several major companies have voluntarily chosen to remove BVO from their ingredient lists. PepsiCo made the announcement in 2013 that they would eliminate BVO from Gatorade, followed by Coca-Cola and PepsiCo in 2014 stating their intention to remove BVO from all their beverages. Europe and Japan have banned BVO, yet it remains permitted in the US. BVO can still be found primarily in smaller store-brand soft drinks.
Wen: Concerns about the safety of BVOs have been raised for many years. In 1976, a study discovered that pigs who consumed BVO experienced damage to their hearts, kidneys, livers, and testicles. A more recent study conducted in 2022, which was specifically mentioned by the FDA in their recent decision, found that rats given BVO had accumulations of BVO derivatives in their heart, liver, and fat. Additionally, this study, conducted in collaboration with the National Institutes of Health, revealed that BVO caused changes in the thyroid, resulting in the enlargement of thyroid cells and an increase in the production of the thyroid-stimulating hormone.
CNN: BVO is one of the four products that have already been banned in California. How does the FDA's announcement impact the situation in California?
Wen: In October, Governor Gavin Newsom signed a law in California that would ban the production, sale, or distribution of foods containing BVO along with red dye No. 3, potassium bromate, and propylparaben.
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The legislation will be implemented in 2027 and will exclusively impact California. If the FDA withdraws authorization for BVO, it will have nationwide consequences. The FDA is currently reviewing red dye No. 3 and anticipates issuing a decision soon. Can you provide information on the studies related to red dye No. 3 and its potential health risks?
Wen: The use of red dye No. 3 was banned by the FDA for cosmetics due to its cancer-causing effects in rats. Further studies have reinforced the association between this dye and cancer in animals. Additionally, numerous studies have linked the consumption of this dye to hyperactivity and other behavioral challenges in children. Despite being strictly restricted in other countries, including those in the European Union, red dye No. 3 is still permitted for use in food and beverages in the US, including certain candies.
CNN: Given that these products are not yet banned in the US, should individuals be concerned about the presence of BVO and red dye No. 3 in their products? Are there any measures they can take to minimize the associated risks?
Wen: The presence of a robust regulatory agency like the FDA, which diligently assesses the safety of consumer products, is highly commendable. With the arrival of new evidence, the FDA's scientific experts thoroughly scrutinize the data and update guidelines accordingly. Furthermore, the FDA actively considers feedback from the public, including advocacy organizations that consistently proactively investigate potential risks.
Consumer Reports has called out Peeps for containing red dye no. 3 in their pink and purple candies. This statement comes one week before Easter.
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According to Consumer Reports, the popular Easter candy Peeps contains an additive that has been associated with cancer. Based on the studies, it is important to consider the amount and frequency of consumption. While consuming a single soda with BVO at a barbecue may not pose a major concern, individuals who regularly consume a soda each day should exercise caution and examine the ingredients.
Red dye No. 3 is present in numerous food products, making it challenging for most individuals to completely avoid its consumption. Parents of children prone to hyperactivity or sensitivity to hyperactivity and behavioral issues should carefully examine the ingredient labels of both food and medication. In food products, red dye No. 3 is commonly listed as "FD&C Red #3," while in medications, it is listed as a dye categorized under inactive ingredients.
Moreover, it is important to limit the consumption of sodas and candies for various other reasons. Excessive intake of sugary and highly processed foods has been linked to various health complications, including diabetes, obesity, and heart problems. Opt for water as a substitute for some sodas, and incorporate fresh fruits, nuts, hummus, and yogurt into your diet as healthier snacks.
