A nationwide recall has been issued for a lemonade product after it was found to contain an undeclared food additive linked to health risks.
Oak Cliff Beverage Works (OCBW), a Texas-based company, has voluntarily recalled over 16,000 units of its Beverage Base Lemonade due to the presence of Yellow 5, a synthetic dye that was not disclosed on the ingredient list.
Yellow 5, also known as tartrazine, is a petroleum-derived food coloring commonly used in processed foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.
Though approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for regulated use, concerns have been raised about its potential health effects.
Research suggests that Yellow 5 may contribute to hyperactivity in children, allergic reactions, and even DNA damage. It has also been found to contain carcinogenic compounds such as benzidine.
The recall applies specifically to ‘Beverage Base Lemonade, 3 gallon’ with a best-by date of December 12, 2025, and ‘Beverage Base Lemonade, 5 gallon’ with a best-by date of January 12, 2026.
The affected products were distributed in Arkansas, California, Colorado, Kentucky, Missouri, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas.
The FDA classified this recall as a Class II risk, which indicates a low but possible chance of adverse health effects if consumed.
The recall was officially announced on January 31, affecting a total of 8,847 cans from each product line.
Despite the recall, OCBW has not issued a formal public statement. The Post has sought comment from the company.
While the FDA permits the use of Yellow 5 in food products, it mandates that the dye be clearly listed in the ingredients.
As a known allergen, Yellow 5 can cause reactions such as hives, eczema, and asthma in sensitive individuals.
Some studies have also linked the dye to behavioral issues in children, particularly those diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
The additive is commonly found in a variety of consumer goods, including cereals, sodas, gelatins, juices, vitamins, and even toothpaste.
Yellow 5 is among several food dyes banned in European countries due to concerns over their potential carcinogenic and neurological effects.
Nonetheless, many manufacturers in the US continue to use artificial dyes in their products.
This is not the first time food dyes have led to a product recall.
In June 2024, Charles Boggini Company pulled four soda products from the market after failing to declare the presence of artificial coloring.
The recalled beverages included Pink Lemonade, Yellow Lemonade, Yellow Lemonade X and a flavoring product known as Cola Flavoring Base.
The lemonades contained undeclared Red 40 and Yellow 5, both of which have been associated with allergic reactions, migraines, and potential behavioral effects in children.
In response to growing concerns over food additives, California passed legislation in August 2024 to prohibit the sale of products containing six synthetic dyes, including Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1, Blue 6, and Green 3.
This law is set to take effect in December 2027, making California the first U.S. state to ban these chemicals from food products.