What is brominated vegetable oil made of?

Brominated Vegetable Oil (BVO) is a complex mixture of plant-derived triglycerides that have been reacted to contain atoms of the element bromine bonded to the molecules.

Brominated vegetable oil is a vegetable oil that is modified with bromine. It is used as an emulsifier in citrus-flavored soft drinks and sports drinks to keep the flavor evenly distributed throughout the drink. As authorized, brominated vegetable oil is used in small amounts, not to exceed 15 parts per million.

In 1970, the FDA classified Brominated vegetable oil as “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS) for use in food. However, BVO has been linked to several health concerns, including neurological and thyroid problems.

In recent years, studies conducted by the FDA National Center for Toxicological Research have found new evidence of its harmful effects. As a result, the FDA has proposed revoking its regulations on BVO. In the United States, major beverage brands like Coca-Cola and PepsiCo have voluntarily phased out the ingredient due to its health risks.