The FDA has recalled four soda products due to the presence of undeclared harmful food dyes, including one linked to cancer.
These drinks, produced by the Charles Boggini Company, include Pink Lemonade, Yellow Lemonade, Yellow Lemonade X, and a flavoring product known as Cola Flavoring Base.
Supplier of Drink Concentrates and Flavours Under Scrutiny
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Charles Boggini Company does not sell these beverages directly to consumers.
Instead, they supply drink concentrates and flavors to various manufacturers and retailers across multiple states.
Dyes Used in Drinks Containing Carcinogens
The recall was issued because the pink and yellow lemonades contained food dyes Red 40 and Yellow 5, respectively, which the company failed to disclose.
Both dyes contain benzidine, a carcinogen for humans and animals, allowed in minimal, supposedly safe levels in dyes.
Cancer-Causing Benzidine
Companies using these ingredients in their products are required to disclose their presence.
The FDA has stated that ingesting free benzidine increases the cancer risk to just below the ‘concern’ threshold, equating to one cancer case per million people.
Recall Across Nine States
Charles Boggini Company initiated a voluntary recall of the drinks at the end of March, but the FDA didn’t classify the health hazard until June 3.
These products were recalled in nine states: Connecticut, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Arizona, Missouri, Illinois, Nevada, and California.
Health Concerns Relating to Sulfites
The Cola Flavoring Base was also recalled for containing undeclared sulfites, preservatives found in wine and various food products such as cured meats and dried fruits.
Sulfites can cause allergic reactions, respiratory issues, and digestive problems in sensitive individuals.
Almost 3,000 Gallons Recalled
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When sulfites mix with stomach acid during digestion, they release sulfur dioxide, an irritating gas.
The recall included 28 gallons of pink lemonade, over 2,700 gallons of cola flavoring base, and 112 gallons of yellow lemonade products.
Pink Lemonade and Cola Flavoring – Class II Health Hazard
The FDA classified the pink lemonade and cola flavoring base as Class II health hazards, meaning they may cause ‘temporary or medically reversible adverse health effects’.
‘The probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote’.
Yellow Lemonade – Class III Health Hazard
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According to the FDA, the yellow lemonade drinks were classified as a Class III health hazard, indicating they are ‘not likely to cause adverse health effects’.
In evaluating the health hazards of recalled products, the FDA considers factors such as whether the product has already caused illness and the risk of future health impacts.
Red 40 Linked to ADHD in Children
Class I recalls are the most serious, indicating a reasonable chance of causing serious adverse health consequences or death.
Some studies have also linked Red 40, also known as E129, to allergies, migraines, and mental disorders like ADHD in children.
Yellow 5 used in Twinkies
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The Yellow 5 food dye is commonly used in foods like Twinkies.
It has been linked to allergic reactions and intolerance in individuals with asthma or aspirin sensitivity.
Usage and Amount Must be Disclosed
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Although the recall was labeled as voluntary, Charles Boggini did not confirm this and did not respond promptly to requests for comment.
The FDA mandates that companies disclose the use of dyes, preservatives, and other chemicals in their products. Non-compliance can lead to recalls or fines.
