Analytical chemistry finds high levels of 4-methylimidazole in fizzy drinks

Beverage analysis of Coca-Cola, Pepsi-Cola, Diet Coke, and Diet Pepsi has found that they contain high levels of 4-methylimidazole (4-MI), a known animal carcinogen.

Ammonia and sulfites are used to manufacture the caramel colouring of the fizzy drinks, which forms the carcinogen. The tests were commissioned by the Centre for Science in the Public Interest in the US, who have previously called for ammonia-sulfite caramel colouring to be banned.

4-methylimidazole (4-MI) is a known carcinogen, and is therefore capable of causing cancer in humans.

CSPI executive director Michael F. Jacobson said: “Coke and Pepsi, with the acquiescence of the FDA, are needlessly exposing millions of Americans to a chemical that causes cancer.

“The colouring is completely cosmetic, adding nothing to the flavour of the product. If companies can make brown food colouring that is carcinogen-free, the industry should use that."

As troubling as the new test results are, CSPI says soda drinkers should be much more concerned about the high-fructose corn syrup or other sugars used in soft drinks. Soda drinkers are much more likely than non-soda drinkers to develop weight gain, obesity, diabetes, and other health problems.

Posted by Fiona Griffiths