Six Cancer-Causing Food Additives Banned by FDA

Six synthetic flavoring substances are being banned by the federal government over cancer concerns at the urging of environmental advocacy groups.

The substances and flavor enhancers that the Food and Drug Administration announced Oct. 5 it is removing from its approved food additives list include synthetically derived benzophenone, ethyl acrylate, eugenyl methyl ether (methyl eugenol), myrcene, pulegone, and pyridine.

A seventh additive, styrene, is being delisted because industry no longer uses it as a food additive, the FDA said. However, it is still used in a wide range of other products.

The Flavor and Extract Manufacturers ...