When I think Consumer Reports, I think of where I would turn to find out which kind of car to buy, the satisfactory rating on certain running shoes, and what cell phones are the smartest buy. But, after reading a small article about carcinogenic ingredients that have been found in some beverages, I realized that this publication contains some interesting health-related information.

In reference to the above mentioned article, it was stated that in May of 2006, the FDA announced that it had discovered benzene, a known carcinogen, in some well-known beverages, including: Crush Pineapple soda, Crystal Light Sunrise Classic Orange drink, AquaCal strawberry-flavored water, Giant Light Cranberry Juice Cocktail, and Safeway Select Diet Orange soda. Evidently, federal regulations allow up to 5 parts per billion (ppb) of benzene to be contained in beverages, but these five drinks in particular proved to have more than what it is allowed.

Benzene is formed when a mixture of substances (benzoate salts, vitamin C, and erythorbic acid) are combined. In fact, it appears as though it only needs to take a combination of benzoate salts (aka sodium benzoate) and either of the aforesaid other substances. The best way to avoid benzene consumption? First, you may want to avoid the five products that were mentioned. Second, look at the ingredient labels on other beverages. If they contain sodium benzoate and either ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) or erythorbic acid, you would be wise to opt for a glass of water instead.