Lemonade & Soda Recall
Four different products are included in the recall, all of which have been distributed across the United States, and are sold to restaurants who sell cups of soda and lemonade. The following have been found to contain FD&C Red No. 40, a red dye that has been found to cause cancer:
Cola Flavoring BaseYellow LemonadeYellow Lemonade XPink Lemonade
These products are sold in one- and five-gallon containers to restaurants who use them to stock soda machines.
Red No. 40, Yellow No. 5, & Sulfites
The "Pink Lemonade" specifically was found to contain Red No. 40, a cancer-causing product that actually isn't illegal to use, and can be found in a range of different cosmetics, drugs, and foods. Studies have shown that Red No. 40 is linked to incidents of colorectal cancer as well as increased levels of allergies, migraines, and mental health defects. While the FDA hasn't banned Red No. 40, they do require manufacturers to declare when the dye is used.
The "Yellow Lemonade" and "Yellow Lemonade x" products were recalled after they were found to have FD&C Yellow No. 5, better known as tartrazine, which is another dangerous additive. It is believed to contribute to allergic reactions in asthmatics as well as those with low tolerance to aspirin.
The "Cola Flavoring Base" wasn't recalled due to the use of a dye, but rather the use of certain sulfites, which are salts that used to preserve food. However, consuming sulfites in large quantities has been linked to skin reactions, digestive problems, and respiratory issues.
Consuming The Recalled Products
Unfortunately, most of the sodas and other junk foods we eat including sugary breakfast cereals, candies, pastries, and many other items that are generally consumed in the average American diet do have Red No. 40, Yellow No. 5, sulfites, and other harmful dyes and preservatives listed in their ingredients, and many people pay no mind to it.
Going forward, take a quick glance at the ingredients list before adding something to your shopping cart, because a simple drop or two of colorful dye may be a lot more harmful than you think.