The Primary Culprits: Banned Ingredients in US Mountain Dew
The most significant factor behind the prohibition of the US version of Mountain Dew in England is the presence of certain additives banned by UK and EU food standards agencies. These ingredients, while widely used for decades in the American food industry, are considered a health risk under the UK's stricter, precautionary approach to food regulation.
Brominated Vegetable Oil (BVO)
One of the most infamous components of the original US formula is Brominated Vegetable Oil (BVO). BVO is an emulsifier used to keep citrus flavourings suspended in a drink, preventing them from separating and rising to the top. However, this ingredient has a long history of safety concerns. Research has shown that bromine from BVO can accumulate in body fat, heart, and brain tissue.
- Animal studies have shown adverse effects on the thyroid and other organs.
- There have been documented cases of bromide toxicity in individuals who consumed excessive amounts of BVO-containing sodas, leading to neurological symptoms and other serious health issues.
Due to these risks, BVO was banned in the United Kingdom as far back as the 1970s and subsequently prohibited throughout the European Union. This ban was so impactful that in July 2024, the US FDA also finalized a rule to ban BVO, with a deadline for manufacturers to comply by August 2025.
Calcium Disodium EDTA
Another ingredient that is not permitted in drinks in the UK is Calcium Disodium EDTA (E385). While it serves as a preservative and flavour stabilizer in many American products, animal studies have linked it to reproductive and developmental effects and potentially an increased risk of colon cancer. Although allowed in some UK foods, its presence in flavoured drinks is illegal, leading to seizures of imported US Mountain Dew that contain it.
A Tale of Two Formulas: UK vs. US Mountain Dew
Recognizing the difference in regulatory standards, PepsiCo produces a separate, reformulated version of Mountain Dew for the UK market. This version adheres strictly to UK food safety laws, resulting in a product that is legal to sell but distinctly different from its US counterpart.
Key differences in ingredients
- Sweetener: The US version uses High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS), whereas the UK version is sweetened with regular sugar.
- Colouring: The vibrant yellow-green colour in US Mountain Dew comes from the petroleum-based dye Yellow #5, which is associated with hyperactivity and behavioural problems in children. The UK version uses natural beta-carotene, derived from carrots, to achieve its colour.
- Additives: The UK version completely omits the banned BVO and Calcium Disodium EDTA, using approved alternatives like Gum Arabic and Ascorbic Acid.
Why the Stricter Regulations? A Precautionary Approach
UK and EU food legislation often follows the 'precautionary principle,' where a substance can be restricted or banned if there is evidence of potential harm, even without conclusive proof of danger to humans. This contrasts with the US approach, which has historically required more definitive evidence of harm before restricting an additive. This philosophical divide explains the differing ingredient lists not only for Mountain Dew but for many other food products.
The Black Market for Banned American Sweets
Despite the clear legal restrictions, an illicit market for illegally imported American food and drink exists in the UK. Many of these products are sold through smaller, independent shops or online, driven by social media trends and consumer demand for perceived exotic items. Trading Standards officers regularly conduct raids to remove these non-compliant products from shelves to protect public health.
Comparison: US vs. UK Mountain Dew
| Feature | US Mountain Dew (Banned) | UK Mountain Dew (Legal) |
|---|---|---|
| Emulsifier | Brominated Vegetable Oil (BVO) | Gum Arabic |
| Preservative | Calcium Disodium EDTA | Potassium Sorbate |
| Sweetener | High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS) | Sugar |
| Colouring | Yellow #5 (Tartrazine, E102) | Beta Carotene |
| Flavour Profile | Intense citrus flavour | Milder, more lime-forward taste |
Conclusion: The Final Verdict
In summary, the notion that Mountain Dew is banned in England is a direct consequence of incompatible food safety standards between the US and UK. The original US formula contains several ingredients, including BVO and Calcium Disodium EDTA, which are illegal in the UK due to potential health risks. To comply with these strict regulations, PepsiCo manufactures a different, legally permissible version for the UK market. This divergence highlights the differing regulatory philosophies and prioritizes UK consumer safety over replicating the exact taste and appearance of its American counterpart. The existence of a legal UK version clarifies that the brand is not banned, but rather the original formula is, with any illegal imports facing confiscation by trading standards officers. You can learn more about food additives and safety at the Center for Science in the Public Interest.
