Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage Inc. has expressed strong support for the FDA’s recent decision to revoke the approval of brominated vegetable oil (BVO) as a food additive. BVO, a substance modified with bromine, has been linked to adverse health effects, including potential thyroid issues. This regulatory change follows studies supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) that highlighted these health risks.
Heather Isely, Executive Vice President of Natural Grocers, emphasized the company’s long-standing commitment to selling high-quality, nutritious products. Founded in 1955, Natural Grocers asserts that it has never stocked items containing BVO. They view the FDA’s ban as a pivotal move to enhance consumer safety.
Natural Grocers has criticized the food industry’s reliance on chemically modified ingredients like BVO to boost product shelf life, often at the expense of nutrition. By advocating for responsible product choices, the grocer positions itself as a protector of public health. Their statement underscores the importance of transparency and consumer education in the grocery sector.
The FDA’s regulatory change is set to take effect on August 2, allowing manufacturers one year to adjust their formulations. As attention to food safety and health continues to grow, Natural Grocers calls on other retailers to prioritize health over profit, setting a standard for responsible grocery practices in an industry often dominated by processed foods.