CheckVegan

Is Brominated Vegetable Oil vegan?

Brominated Vegetable Oil

Vegan Vegan
Vegetarian Vegetarian

Brominated vegetable oil (BVO) is a complex mixture of plant-derived triglycerides in which bromine atoms have been bonded to the fat molecules, historically used as an emulsifier to keep citrus flavour oils suspended in soft drinks and other beverages. The U.S. FDA revoked its authorisation for food use, and the California Food Safety Act also targeted its use; several other countries had already banned it due to potential adverse health effects. It is no longer authorised for use in the EU, UK, or Canada.

Also known as brominated soybean oil, brominated triglycerides, BVO
E number E443
INS number 443
CAS number 8016-94-2
Last reviewed 29 May 2026

An ingredient is considered vegan if it contains no animal-derived components at any point in its production.

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