Benzene Side Effects
Benzene, also known as benzol, is a clear, highly flammable liquid hydrocarbon that is used to manufacture chemical products including DDT, detergents, insecticides, and motor fuels. Recent reports have linked long-term exposure to benzene, which is believed to be a carcinogen, with health problems such as cancer and Acute Myelongenous Leukemia (AML). People who work in facilities with high levels of benzene in the air are at an increased risk of developing cancer and AML.
Recently, the FDA has found benzene in soft drinks at levels higher than the federal limit set for bottled water - five parts per billion (ppb). The drinks with high levels of benzene were AquaCal strawberry-flavored water, Crush Pineapple soda, Giant Light Cranberry Juice Cocktail, Crystal Light Sunrise Classic Orange drink, and Safeway Select Diet Orange Soda.
Another study done by Consumer Reports found benzene levels of between 7 and 30 ppb in Crystal Light Sunrise Classic Orange, Sunkist Orange soda, and Fanta Pineapple and Orange Sodas.
Further independent lab tests found benzene in Coca-Cola's Vault Zero at levels of 13 ppb.
Benzene is formed when beverages that contain benzoate salts and vitamin C (ascorbic acid) are exposed to light or heat. In some fruit juices, sodium benzoate and potassium benzoate are naturally present; however they can also be added to some drinks to prevent to growth of bacteria, yeasts, and molds.