The caramel coloring used in many sodas contains a chemical called 4-methylimidazole, or 4-Mel, that may increase your risk of getting cancer, Consumer Reports says.
The state of California now requires manufacturers to include a warning label on products that have more than 29 micrograms of the chemical. Yet, when Pepsi One and Malta Goya beverages were tested by Consumer Reports in California, the levels in a 12-ounce serving were still too high.
Dr. Urvashi Rangan, a Consumer Reports toxicologist, explains, “We are concerned about both the levels of 4-Mel we found in many of the soft drinks tested and the variations observed among brands, especially given the widespread consumption of these types of beverages. There is no reason why consumers need to be exposed to this avoidable and unnecessary risk that can stem from coloring food and beverages brown.”
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t currently regulate 4-Mel levels in foods and drinks, and levels of the chemical tested by Consumer Reports varied depending on which state the product was sold in. The FDA is investigating how safe 4-Mel is for consumers, but, in the meantime, if you drink soda regularly, would you consider reducing your consumption or opt for water instead?
Leave a Comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked with *