Cancer-Causing Benzene Found in Drinks
(Associated Press, 5/19/06)

The FDA reports that five beverages out of about 100 analyzed had levels of benzene exceeding federal drinking-water standards and that the drink manufacturers have agreed to reformulate these products. This carcinogenic substance can form when heat or light trigger a chemical reaction in drinks that combine ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) with either of the preservatives, sodium benzoate or potassium benzoate. Dr. Laura Tarantino of the FDA claims that this situation poses no health risk; while Richard Wiles of the Environmental Working Group contends that the problem with benzene in soda and juices is serious.