Key Controversial Ingredients in Mountain Dew
For many years, consumers have raised questions about the ingredients found in Mountain Dew and their potential health impacts. The beverage's distinctive bright color and flavor profile are achieved using a mix of substances that have drawn scrutiny from health experts and regulatory bodies. A closer look at the formula reveals several key ingredients that are frequently cited as problematic.
High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS)
High Fructose Corn Syrup is the primary sweetener in standard Mountain Dew. A single 20-ounce bottle contains an alarmingly high amount, contributing significantly to daily sugar intake. The consumption of large amounts of HFCS has been consistently linked to a variety of health issues.
Risks associated with high HFCS intake:
- Obesity and Weight Gain: HFCS is metabolized differently than regular sugar and is associated with increased fat production, particularly around the midsection.
- Type 2 Diabetes: The rapid spike in blood sugar from sugary drinks like Mountain Dew can contribute to insulin resistance over time.
- Fatty Liver Disease: The liver's processing of high levels of fructose can lead to increased fat accumulation in the organ.
- Metabolic Syndrome: Excessive sugar intake is a major risk factor for this cluster of conditions, which increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Artificial Food Dyes: Yellow 5 (Tartrazine)
Mountain Dew's signature neon-yellow hue comes from the artificial food dye Yellow 5, also known as tartrazine. While the FDA still approves its use, artificial dyes have faced considerable pushback, especially in Europe where many foods require a warning label or have been reformulated to use natural alternatives.
Concerns regarding Yellow 5:
- Hyperactivity in Children: Studies have suggested a link between synthetic food dyes, including Yellow 5, and hyperactivity and other neurobehavioral issues in sensitive children.
- Potential Allergies: Some individuals have reported allergic reactions, such as skin rashes, to tartrazine.
- Phase-Out in Other Countries: Due to mounting pressure, the FDA announced plans in 2025 to phase out petroleum-based artificial dyes by the end of 2026, though some companies have already made the switch.
Phosphoric and Citric Acids
Mountain Dew has a low pH due to the presence of both phosphoric acid and citric acid. While these ingredients add a tart flavor and act as a preservative, they are highly corrosive to tooth enamel. The combination of high acidity and high sugar content creates a perfect storm for dental decay.
The 'Mountain Dew Mouth' effect:
- Acidic ingredients soften tooth enamel, making it more vulnerable to damage.
- Sugar feeds the bacteria in the mouth, which produces even more acid, further eroding the enamel.
- The high caffeine content encourages consumers to sip over a longer period, prolonging the exposure of teeth to damaging acids and sugar.
- Enamel erosion is irreversible and can lead to cavities, sensitivity, and severe tooth decay.
Sodium Benzoate and Potential Benzene Formation
Sodium benzoate is a preservative used to prevent microbial growth. However, when combined with ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and exposed to heat or light, it can form benzene, a known carcinogen. While the FDA has previously worked with manufacturers to address elevated benzene levels and considers current levels safe, long-term studies on regular, low-level consumption are still limited. It is worth noting that diet sodas were previously more susceptible to this issue due to differences in sugar content.
A Note on Brominated Vegetable Oil (BVO)
In previous formulations, Mountain Dew contained brominated vegetable oil (BVO), an emulsifier used to keep citrus flavors suspended. BVO, a patented flame retardant for plastics, was a major source of controversy due to animal studies linking it to organ damage and neurological issues. Following public pressure, PepsiCo announced BVO's removal from its products. The FDA ruled BVO unsafe in 2024 and banned it from the food supply, with enforcement by August 2025. This confirms that modern US-made Mountain Dew no longer contains BVO, but its history highlights the concerns over certain food additives.
Comparison: Original Mountain Dew vs. Diet/Zero Sugar
For those considering a 'healthier' Mountain Dew, the diet and zero-sugar versions replace high fructose corn syrup with artificial sweeteners. However, this substitution introduces a new set of potential concerns.
| Feature | Original Mountain Dew | Diet / Zero Sugar Mountain Dew |
|---|---|---|
| Sweetener | High Fructose Corn Syrup | Aspartame, Sucralose, Acesulfame Potassium |
| Calories (per 12oz) | ~170 | 0 |
| Sugar (per 12oz) | ~46g | 0g |
| Acidity | High (Citric & Phosphoric Acid) | High (Citric Acid) |
| Artificial Dyes | Contains Yellow 5 | Contains Yellow 5 (and others) |
| Health Concerns | High sugar intake risks (obesity, diabetes), dental erosion, caffeine dependence | Artificial sweetener risks (metabolic disruption, gut health), dental erosion, caffeine dependence |
The Healthier Alternative
For consumers looking to reduce their intake of these concerning ingredients, the best alternatives are often the simplest.
- Water: Plain or carbonated water is the optimal choice for hydration, with zero calories, sugar, or artificial ingredients.
- Infused Water: Add natural flavor to water with slices of lemon, lime, cucumber, or berries.
- Unsweetened Tea or Coffee: Provides caffeine without the sugar load. Can be enjoyed hot or iced.
- Sparkling Water: Offers the fizziness of soda without the calories or sugar. Brands like Spindrift add a small amount of real fruit juice for flavor.
- Kombucha: This fermented tea contains probiotics and is a lower-sugar alternative, though sugar content varies by brand.
Conclusion
While Mountain Dew is a popular beverage, its ingredient profile, particularly its high sugar content and inclusion of artificial colors and acids, presents significant health concerns. High fructose corn syrup is a major contributor to rising rates of obesity and metabolic syndrome, while the beverage's acidity is extremely damaging to dental health. The removal of brominated vegetable oil and the planned phase-out of Yellow 5 are positive steps, but the beverage still contains ingredients that warrant careful consideration from health-conscious consumers. For most people, consuming this soda in moderation is key, with healthier, more natural alternatives like water and herbal teas serving as better options for daily hydration. Making informed choices about what you drink is a critical component of maintaining long-term health and wellness. For more on food additives and health, visit the Environmental Working Group's Food Scores database for detailed product information.
