For decades, Mountain Dew has cultivated an image of youthful rebellion and extreme sports culture, but behind the neon-green branding lies a history of health and corporate controversies that have driven consumers to boycott the beverage. The motivations behind this growing consumer movement are multifaceted, ranging from public health concerns to political activism and environmental stewardship. Understanding these issues is key to making informed decisions about what we choose to purchase.
The Serious Health Risks of Consuming Mountain Dew
Mountain Dew is not just a sugary drink; it is one of the most concentrated in the market, with significant health implications. Its formulation makes it particularly damaging to dental and overall metabolic health.
Dental Damage and 'Mountain Dew Mouth'
The term “Mountain Dew mouth” was coined to describe the severe dental erosion and decay observed in individuals who consume the soda frequently, especially in Appalachian regions with limited access to dental care. The harm is caused by a powerful one-two punch of high sugar and citric acid content. While a 12-ounce can of Coke contains about 39 grams of sugar, a can of Mountain Dew packs a staggering 46 grams, along with a significantly higher acidity level (a pH of 3.3 compared to Coke's 2.5). This combination softens tooth enamel, creates an ideal environment for cavity-causing bacteria, and can lead to tooth sensitivity and decay that is sometimes as damaging as that caused by methamphetamine use.
High Sugar and Metabolic Disease
Beyond dental health, the high sugar and high fructose corn syrup content of Mountain Dew are directly linked to serious metabolic health issues. Regular consumption can lead to significant weight gain, an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, and elevated "bad" cholesterol levels. For perspective, the American Heart Association recommends no more than 36 grams of added sugar per day for most men, a threshold a single can of Mountain Dew exceeds.
Dangerous Artificial Ingredients
For many years, the American formula of Mountain Dew contained brominated vegetable oil (BVO), a chemical patented as a flame retardant that is banned in food products in many countries, including the European Union. Although PepsiCo removed BVO from its products in 2020 after significant public pressure, the long history of including such an ingredient is a major point of criticism for those who boycott the brand.
Ethical Concerns Surrounding PepsiCo
As Mountain Dew is a PepsiCo brand, boycotts often target the parent company's broader ethical and political stances. Activist groups have raised concerns about PepsiCo's business practices and affiliations.
Involvement in Controversial Politics
The most prominent recent boycott stems from PepsiCo’s acquisitions and partnerships. The BDS (Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions) movement targets brands that are perceived as supporting the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories. PepsiCo’s acquisition of SodaStream and its 50% ownership stake in Sabra hummus, companies cited by activists for their business operations in disputed territories, has made Mountain Dew and other PepsiCo products a focus of these boycott efforts.
Questionable Marketing Practices
PepsiCo has faced criticism for marketing controversies, such as the 2013 Mountain Dew ad campaign developed by Tyler, the Creator. The ads were widely condemned for using racial stereotypes and promoting violence against women, leading to PepsiCo ending its partnership with the artist and pulling the ads. Another infamous event was the 2012 "Dub the Dew" promotion, which was hijacked by internet trolls submitting and voting for offensive and racist names, an incident that was a public relations nightmare for the brand.
Comparison Table: Mountain Dew vs. Healthier Alternatives
| Feature | Mountain Dew (Original) | Sparkling Water (Flavored) | Homemade Iced Green Tea |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sugar Content (per 12oz) | ~46 grams (High Fructose Corn Syrup) | 0 grams | 0 grams (can be sweetened naturally) |
| Acidity (pH) | Very High (pH 3.3) | Low to Neutral (pH 4-7) | Lower than soda (varies) |
| Additives | Artificial colors (Yellow 5, Yellow 6), Preservatives (Sodium Benzoate), Flavors | Natural flavors, sometimes citric acid | Minimal to none |
| Caffeine (per 12oz) | ~54 mg (moderate) | 0 mg | Varies (contains beneficial antioxidants) |
| Dental Impact | Highly corrosive to enamel; significant risk of cavities | Minimal impact | Beneficial for dental health |
| Metabolic Impact | Linked to weight gain, type 2 diabetes risk | None | Can support metabolism and overall health |
Environmental and Social Issues with PepsiCo
Critics also cite environmental and social justice issues related to the broader operations of Mountain Dew's parent company.
Plastic Waste and Pollution
As one of the world's largest food and beverage corporations, PepsiCo contributes to significant plastic pollution. Despite pledges to increase recycled content and reduce virgin plastic use, the sheer scale of the company's single-use plastic packaging remains a significant environmental concern. The company has been called out by environmental groups for its waste generation and difficulty in managing recycling infrastructure in many markets.
Water Usage and Human Rights Concerns
PepsiCo has faced criticism for excessive water usage in its manufacturing processes, particularly in water-stressed regions. In India, activists have accused the company of using massive amounts of water in its bottling plants, impacting local water supplies and basic human needs. Furthermore, union representatives have accused the company of anti-trade union practices and human rights violations at some of its facilities in India.
Supply Chain Issues and Labor Practices
While PepsiCo has a public-facing commitment to ethical labor practices, past allegations of anti-union activities and the broad reach of its supply chain, which includes contractors and suppliers globally, raise ongoing concerns about labor rights. Consumer pressure and boycotts serve to highlight that the company's ethical conduct is an ongoing consideration for its customers.
Conclusion: The Case for a Consumer Boycott
The decision to boycott Mountain Dew is driven by a powerful combination of factors. From well-documented dental and metabolic health risks, primarily due to its excessive sugar and acid content, to the ethical and environmental baggage of its parent company, PepsiCo, consumers have ample justification. Boycotters often cite health concerns related to high sugar and once-used controversial ingredients like BVO, alongside corporate ethical issues such as political affiliations, problematic marketing, and environmental shortcomings like plastic pollution and unsustainable water usage. As consumers become more aware of the broader impact of their purchasing decisions, the reasons for a Mountain Dew boycott extend beyond personal taste and tap into broader issues of corporate social responsibility and ethical consumption.
For more information on the global campaigns influencing brand behavior, visit the BDS Movement website.
