What are the benefits of brominated vegetable oil?

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.

Some sources suggest that BVO helps to keep the citrus flavor-containing oil from floating to the top of a water-based solution, however, the potential health risks associated with BVO outweigh any potential benefits.

Without BVO, these beverages may have a cloudy appearance and inconsistent flavor, as the essential oils would separate from the liquid. As authorized, brominated vegetable oil is used in small amounts, not to exceed 15 parts per million.

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

Several countries, including the European Union, India, and Japan, have already banned the use of Brominated vegetable oil in food products. In the United States, major beverage brands like Coca-Cola and PepsiCo have voluntarily phased out the ingredient due to its health risks.