UNPA / FDA Proposes Ban on Brominated Vegetable Oil (BVO)

Nov 2, 2023
Dear Colleagues —

 

FDA has just announced a proposed ban on brominated vegetable oil (BVO). This is the very same BVO just banned by the State of California. We note that Commissioner Califf recently expressed displeasure that states (California) were independently banning food additives previously approved by FDA. The Commissioner’s comment was interpreted as, “We are the FDA, and we will tell the public what is safe and what is not.”

 

Our interpretation is that BVO and many other food additives and certified colors are likely to come under re-review and possible loss of food additive status in the face of more current research strongly indicating risks to human health. That is a good thing. It is also an important talking point for the natural product industry that has taken such steps years ago to protect consumer health.

 

So, a salute to retailers like Whole Foods for diligence in excluding many harmful additives commonly used in foods.

 

Regards,