Supplier of Drink Concentrates and Flavours Under Scrutiny
Charles Boggini Company does not sell these beverages directly to consumers.
Source: usertmrk, Freepik
Instead, they supply drink concentrates and flavors to various manufacturers and retailers across multiple states.
Dyes Used in Drinks Containing Carcinogens
The recall was issued because the pink and yellow lemonades contained food dyes Red 40 and Yellow 5, respectively, which the company failed to disclose.
Source: Freepik
Both dyes contain benzidine, a carcinogen for humans and animals, allowed in minimal, supposedly safe levels in dyes.
Cancer-Causing Benzidine
Companies using these ingredients in their products are required to disclose their presence.
Source: Wikimedia
The FDA has stated that ingesting free benzidine increases the cancer risk to just below the ‘concern’ threshold, equating to one cancer case per million people.
Recall Across Nine States
Charles Boggini Company initiated a voluntary recall of the drinks at the end of March, but the FDA didn’t classify the health hazard until June 3.
Adobe
These products were recalled in nine states: Connecticut, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Arizona, Missouri, Illinois, Nevada, and California.
Health Concerns Relating to Sulfites
The Cola Flavoring Base was also recalled for containing undeclared sulfites, preservatives found in wine and various food products such as cured meats and dried fruits.
Source: Sorin Popa/Unsplash
Sulfites can cause allergic reactions, respiratory issues, and digestive problems in sensitive individuals.
Almost 3,000 Gallons Recalled
When sulfites mix with stomach acid during digestion, they release sulfur dioxide, an irritating gas.
Source: diana.grytsku, Freepik
The recall included 28 gallons of pink lemonade, over 2,700 gallons of cola flavoring base, and 112 gallons of yellow lemonade products.
Pink Lemonade and Cola Flavoring – Class II Health Hazard
The FDA classified the pink lemonade and cola flavoring base as Class II health hazards, meaning they may cause ‘temporary or medically reversible adverse health effects’.
Source: Freepik
‘The probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote’.
Yellow Lemonade – Class III Health Hazard
According to the FDA, the yellow lemonade drinks were classified as a Class III health hazard, indicating they are ‘not likely to cause adverse health effects’.
Source: user18526052, Freepik
In evaluating the health hazards of recalled products, the FDA considers factors such as whether the product has already caused illness and the risk of future health impacts.
Red 40 Linked to ADHD in Children
Class I recalls are the most serious, indicating a reasonable chance of causing serious adverse health consequences or death.
Source: Freepik
Some studies have also linked Red 40, also known as E129, to allergies, migraines, and mental disorders like ADHD in children.
Yellow 5 used in Twinkies
The Yellow 5 food dye is commonly used in foods like Twinkies.
Source: Larry Moore, Wikimedia
It has been linked to allergic reactions and intolerance in individuals with asthma or aspirin sensitivity.
Usage and Amount Must be Disclosed
Although the recall was labeled as voluntary, Charles Boggini did not confirm this and did not respond promptly to requests for comment.
Source: Wirestock, Freepik
The FDA mandates that companies disclose the use of dyes, preservatives, and other chemicals in their products. Non-compliance can lead to recalls or fines.