Powerade, mountain dew, orange soda, what do they all have in common? Well besides the fact that they are all made by coco-cola, they all have a particular chemical in common. This chemical is mostly found in soft drinks and drinks that have a citrus or fruity additive. The chemical I am referring to is Brominated vegetable oil (BVO).

BVO is used as an emulsifier because citrus, lime, and many sweet drinks are oily. Since oil is lighter than water it sits on top creating an uneven mixture. To get the oily ingredients to mix BVO is added to give you that refreshingly sweet taste!

Well, I guess it can’t be too refreshing especially when it’s not adding years to your life. The main culprit in this controversial chemical is Bromine which is found naturally. You would think Bromine is harmless since it’s in the same family as chlorine and iodine, two elements that are found throughout our body.

The problem with Bromine is that in high amounts it can cause major health issues. There have been recorded instances that toxic levels of Bromine have caused headaches, fatigue, skin rash and loss of muscle coordination. An element that is found in the same family as flame retardants can’t be too good for the human body.

What is the FDA doing? First you hear about the chemicals in hoagies, now in Powerade. What’s next, chewing gum? If it wasn’t for a Mississippi teenager, this chemical would not be removed from a single drink. This teenager single handily brought two powerhouse companies to their knees!

Yet, the sad truth to the exile of this chemical leaves a high possibility that the replacement for BVO may not be any safer. The good news….there will be many more eyes watching to prevent this from happening.

-Phil