Coloring in cola linked to potentially higher risk for cancer

http://www.cbsnews.com/news/coloring-in-cola-linked-to-higher-risk-for-cancer/

ByJessica Firger February 27, 2015

It's well established that regularly consuming soft drinks -- even low-calorie ones -- is a proven fast track to weight gain, diabetes and obesity. Some people call soda the new smoking and it may be for good reason.

Research has found that 4-methylimidazole (4-Mel), the chemical that gives cola its appealing caramel color is a potential carcinogen. There aren't any federal regulations that restrict use of 4-Mel, but according to the report, more than half of Americans between age 6 to 64 drink enough soda on a regular basis to elevate their cancer risk.

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All of the samples, except for the clear beverages, contained 3.4 to 352.5 micrograms of 4-Mel per 12-ounce bottle or can.

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In recent years, research on 4-Mel has prompted soda drink manufacturers to make some changes to their formulas to reduce the levels of the chemical in their beverages. In 2012, Coca Cola announced it would be switching to a low-4-Mel formula, while still maintaining the product has always been safe.

But cracking down on the soft drink industry won't completely eliminate the chemical from the American diet. Unfortunately, dark-colored carbonated beverages are not the only source of 4-Mel. The chemical is also used in soy and barbecue sauce, pancake syrup and some soups.

Many experts believe the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's approval guidelines for food additives, especially those used to change or improve color of foods and beverages, are too lenient compared with the regulations set up in other countries. Many chemicals commonly used in food in the U.S. are banned elsewhere because of their potential health risk. Recent research links many different food dyes approved for use in the U.S. to increased risk for ADHD, allergies and cancer.