A national recall of lemonade products was issued after it was found that lemonade products contain undeclared food additives related to health risks.
Oak Cliff Beverage Works (OCBW), a Texas-based company, voluntarily recalls more than 16,000 units of drink-based lemonade due to the presence of Yellow 5, a synthetic dye 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.
It was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its regulated use, but concerns have been raised about its potential health effects.
Studies suggest that yellow 5 may contribute to hyperactivity, allergic reactions, and even DNA damage in children. It has also been found to contain carcinogenic compounds such as benzidine.
recall Particularly applicable to “drink-based lemonade, 3 gallons.” “Beverage-based lemonade” with the best date on December 12, 2025 and the best date on 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. This indicates that if consumed, it is unlikely to have a negative health effect.
The recall was officially announced on January 31st, affecting a total of 8,847 cans from each product line.
Despite the recall, OCBW has not issued a formal official statement. This post is being asked for comment from the company.
The FDA allows the use of yellow 5 in foods, but requires 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.
Several studies also link dyes to children's behavioral problems, particularly those diagnosed with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Additives are commonly found in a variety of consumer goods, including cereals, soda, gelatin, juices, vitamins, and even toothpaste.
Yellow 5 is one of several food dyes that are banned in European countries due to concerns about potential carcinogenicity and neurological effects.
Nevertheless, many US manufacturers continue to use artificial dyes in their products.
This is not the first time that food dyes have led to product recalls.
In June 2024, Charles Boggini Company pulled four soda products out of the market after declaring the existence of artificial colouring.
The recalled drinks included pink lemonade, yellow lemonade, yellow lemonade X, and flavored products known as cola flavor bases.
Lemonade contains undeclared red 40 and yellow 5, both associated with allergic reactions, migraines, and potential behavioral effects in children.
In response to growing concerns about food additives, California passed the law in August 2024, banning the sale of products containing six synthetic dyes, including red 40, yellow 5, blue 6, blue 6 and green 3.
The law is expected to come into effect in December 2027, making California the first US state to ban food.
