A Connecticut-based company that sells flavored soda to restaurants has recalled four of its products after the Food and Drug Administration said they contained preservatives and food dyes — including one that can cause cancer.
Charles Boggini Company, headquartered in Coventry, Conn., voluntarily recalled its “Pink Lemonade,” “Cola Flavoring Base,” “Yellow Lemonade” and “Yellow Lemonade X” — all of which are sold in one- and five-gallon containers to restaurants.
The “Pink Lemonade” was recalled after it was found to contain FD&C Red No. 40, which is a red dye that is used in a range of products including cosmetics, drugs and food.
Some studies have linked red dye to rising incidents of colorectal cancer and other ailments including allergies, migraines and mental health defects.
The recall was announced in an enforcement report issued by the FDA, which was reported by Newsweek and DailyMail.com.
The FDA requires manufacturers to declare when dye is used as an ingredient in their products.
The “Yellow Lemonade” and “Yellow Lemonade X” products were found to have FD&C Yellow No. 5 — an artificial food dye that is often found in processed pastries, breakfast cereals and colored candy.
Also known as tartrazine or E102, FD&C Yellow No. 5 is believed to contribute to allergic reactions in asthmatics as well as those with low tolerance to aspirin.
The “Cola Flavoring Base” product that was recalled by Charles Boggini Company was found to contain sulfites, which are salts that are often used as preservatives in food products.
Sulfites in sufficiently large quantities have been blamed for causing skin reactions, digestive problems and respiratory issues.
The Post has sought comment from the FDA.
A spokesperson for Charles Boggini Company denied there was a recall. The company rep said that it sent new labels to clients to attach to the products already on their shelves.
In recent years, companies such as McDonald’s and cereal maker Kellogg have ceased the use of food-coloring dyes.
Last year, the FDA said it was looking into a ban of brominated vegetable oil (BVO) in food because it was no longer considered safe.
BVO is a citrus-boosting additive was previously used in beverages including Gatorade, Coca-Cola, Pepsi and other products and still remains in drinks including Sun Drop and numerous off-brand sodas.
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