Brominated Vegetable Oil
This is what the ingredient is.
Brominated vegetable oil (BVO) is vegetable oil modified with bromine, used to keep citrus flavoring suspended in beverages.
Here is why it shows up on the label.
Emulsifier that keeps citrus oils dispersed in soft drinks. Matches density of water to prevent separation.
Here is what food agencies say.
The FDA has approved it as interim food additive with limits (15 ppm). Banned in EU and Japan. Under review.
Here is what research has found.
Contains bromine which can accumulate in body tissue. Concerns about thyroid effects. Major beverage companies have removed it.
Here are a few things worth knowing.
Controversial. Linked to skin lesions and memory loss at high exposure. Many manufacturers have replaced with alternatives.
Sources
- FDA Interim Status
- EFSA Scientific Opinion
- Environmental Health Perspectives
How to read this page
We publish plain facts about this ingredient so a label is easier to read. This is not medical advice, and it is not a recommendation to buy, avoid, or use anything. For a personal health question, talk with a clinician who knows your history.