Soft Drinks Recall: Undeclared Ingredients Pose Health Hazards

In a recent development, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a recall on three soft drink products produced by Charles Boggini Company. The recall was initiated by the company due to undeclared ingredients in their Pink Lemonade, Cola Flavoring Base, and Yellow Lemonade and Yellow Lemonade X. These undisclosed components have now been classified by their risk level, helping consumers make informed decisions regarding their health and wellbeing.

Understanding the Risk Levels:
The FDA classifies health hazards into three levels: Class I, Class II, and Class III. Class I indicates the most severe risk, where the product has the potential to cause “serious adverse health consequences or death.” Class II signifies that exposure or use of the product might result in temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences. Class III denotes a situation where the product is unlikely to cause adverse health consequences.

Recall Details:
The recalled soft drinks include 28 gallons of Pink Lemonade, 2,723 gallons of the Cola Flavoring Base, and 112 gallons of Yellow Lemonade and Yellow Lemonade X. The Pink Lemonade and Cola Flavoring Base were classified as Class II health hazards, while the Yellow Lemonade and Yellow Lemonade X products received a Class III categorization. It’s important to note that these recalls were voluntary and initiated by Charles Boggini Company in March this year.

Undisclosed Ingredients:
The Pink Lemonade was found to contain undeclared FD&C Red No. 40, the Cola Flavoring Base contained undisclosed sulfites, and the Yellow Lemonade and Yellow Lemonade X contained undeclared FD&C Yellow No. 5.

FD&C Red No. 40:
FD&C Red No. 40, also known as E129, is a red dye used in a wide range of products worldwide. While various organizations agree that dietary exposure to this dye is generally not a health concern, some studies have suggested potential links to allergies, migraines, and mental disorders, particularly ADHD in children. Consequently, the FDA mandates that any product containing this dye must declare it as an ingredient. Failure to comply can lead to product recalls.

Sulfites:
Sulfites, commonly used as preservatives in food products, were found in the Cola Flavoring Base. Although the FDA requires sulfites to be declared in food products with a level over 10 ppm (parts per million), some individuals may have sensitivities to sulfites. These sensitivities can manifest as skin reactions, digestive issues, or respiratory problems.

FD&C Yellow No. 5:
The Yellow Lemonade and Yellow Lemonade X were found to contain FD&C Yellow No. 5, also called tartrazine or E102. This synthetic food dye is commonly used in soda, colored candy, and pastries. For individuals with asthma or an aspirin intolerance, allergic and intolerance reactions may occur.

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Customer safety and well-being are of utmost importance, and the voluntary recall by Charles Boggini Company, along with FDA classifications of the health hazards posed by undeclared ingredients, demonstrates their commitment to consumer protection. By being aware of the potential risks associated with undisclosed ingredients, individuals can make informed choices and support a culture of transparency in the food and beverage industry.

Check out the article in Newsweek.

https://www.newsweek.com/fda-food-recall-soda-food-dye-sulfites-1907882

https://stmdailynews.com/category/food-and-beverage