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Dr Pepper ingredients: what's banned overseas?

Parent company: Keurig Dr Pepper

About Dr Pepper

Dr Pepper is a unique 23-flavor carbonated soft drink produced by Keurig Dr Pepper and sold at grocery chains, convenience stores, and fast food outlets across the US since 1885. It is the oldest major soft drink brand in the US, with annual sales in the billions. Dr Pepper competes directly with Coca-Cola and Pepsi in the carbonated beverage category.

Common concerns with Dr Pepper products

Dr Pepper contains caramel color Type IV, which produces 4-methylimidazole (4-MEI) as a byproduct — a substance the California EPA lists as a probable carcinogen, triggering Prop 65 labeling requirements. Studies have found 4-MEI levels in Dr Pepper that exceed California's exposure threshold. The beverage also uses high-fructose corn syrup as the primary sweetener in the regular formula and contains phosphoric acid and 'natural and artificial flavors' in undisclosed amounts.

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