Mountain Dew (MTN Dew) is one of the most recognizable and intensely flavored sodas on the planet, but its signature electric-yellow hue and powerful citrus kick are the result of a surprisingly complex list of ingredients. As of late 2025, the core formula remains relatively consistent, though a major, recent regulatory change—the final phase-out of a controversial additive—has made the recipe cleaner than its historical versions. This deep dive uncovers every component, breaking down the purpose of each ingredient, from the primary sweeteners and concentrated juices to the preservatives and the infamous artificial coloring. The current, official ingredient list for a standard 12-ounce can of original MTN Dew is a blend of 12 distinct components, each playing a critical role in the soda's flavor, color, and shelf life. Understanding this list is key to appreciating the engineering behind this iconic beverage.

The Biography of MTN Dew: From Mixer to Global Icon

The history of MTN Dew is as colorful as the drink itself, beginning not as a standalone soda, but as a simple mixer for liquor.

• Original Creators: Barney and Ally Hartman, two Tennessee beverage bottlers.
• Year of Creation: The original formula was invented in the 1940s.
• Initial Purpose: The Hartman brothers originally created the lemon-lime flavored drink as a mixer for whiskey, as they struggled to find a consistent soda mixer in their region.
• Naming Origin: The name "Mountain Dew" is a Southern and Appalachian slang term for moonshine.
• Formula Revision: A revised formula, closer to the modern citrus flavor, was created by Bill Bridgforth in 1958.
• Acquisition: The brand was acquired by the Tip Corporation of Marion, Virginia, and later by PepsiCo in 1964, which is when its national and international dominance began.
• Modern Status: MTN Dew is now a global soft drink brand owned by PepsiCo, known for its high caffeine content and numerous limited-edition flavor variants (e.g., Code Red, Baja Blast, Voltage).

The 12 Core Ingredients in Original MTN Dew Explained

The original flavor of MTN Dew is a blend of 12 primary ingredients. While the exact proportions are a closely guarded trade secret, the list reveals the true nature of the citrus kick and energy boost.

1. Carbonated Water

This is the foundation of the soda, providing the essential fizz and effervescence. It’s simply water that has been infused with carbon dioxide gas under pressure.

2. High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS)

HFCS is the primary sweetener in the American version of MTN Dew. It's a liquid sweetener made from corn starch that has been processed to convert some of its glucose into fructose. Its use is a major source of controversy due to its link to high sugar intake and its prevalence in processed foods, although nutritionally it is very similar to table sugar (sucrose).

3. Concentrated Orange Juice

Despite its intense, unique flavor, original MTN Dew does contain a small amount of actual juice. Concentrated orange juice is the third ingredient listed and is a key component of the drink’s signature citrus flavor profile, differentiating it from simple lemon-lime sodas.

4. Citric Acid

Citric acid serves a dual purpose: it acts as a preservative to extend shelf life, and more importantly, it is a major flavor enhancer. It provides the tart, sour, and "zingy" taste that is characteristic of the drink and enhances the perception of the citrus flavor.

5. Natural Flavor

This broad term covers the proprietary blend of essences and extracts that give MTN Dew its unique, secret taste. The "natural" designation means these flavors are derived from a natural source, such as fruits, vegetables, spices, or fermentation products.

6. Sodium Benzoate (Preserves Freshness)

Sodium benzoate is a common food preservative used to prevent the growth of mold, yeast, and bacteria, ensuring the product remains safe and fresh for a long period.

7. Caffeine

MTN Dew is known for its higher caffeine content compared to many other sodas. A 12-ounce can of original MTN Dew contains approximately 54 mg of caffeine, which is about half the amount in a standard cup of coffee but significantly more than a can of Coca-Cola (34 mg). This ingredient is responsible for the energy boost.

8. Sodium Citrate

This is the sodium salt of citric acid. It functions primarily as a flavor stabilizer and an acidity regulator, helping to control the overall tartness and balance the flavor profile.

9. Gum Arabic

Gum Arabic, also known as acacia gum, is a natural gum harvested from the hardened sap of the acacia tree. It's used as an emulsifier and stabilizer, helping to keep the flavor oils and other ingredients evenly suspended in the water, contributing to the drink's texture.

10. Calcium Disodium EDTA (To Protect Flavor)

This is a food additive used as a chelating agent. It binds to trace metals that might be present in the water or other ingredients, preventing them from causing discoloration or flavor degradation over time.

11. Yellow 5 (Tartrazine)

This is arguably the most recognizable and controversial ingredient. Yellow 5 (Tartrazine) is the artificial food dye responsible for MTN Dew’s iconic, bright yellow-green color. It is a certified color additive, but it has been linked in some studies to hyperactivity in children, leading to mandatory warning labels in the European Union and its use being banned in some countries.

12. Erythorbic Acid

Similar to Vitamin C (ascorbic acid), erythorbic acid is an antioxidant used to preserve the color and flavor of the beverage by preventing oxidation.

The Controversial Ingredients and The BVO Ban Update

MTN Dew has been at the center of several food controversies over the years, primarily concerning its artificial additives and high sugar content.

Brominated Vegetable Oil (BVO) is Finally Out

For decades, MTN Dew contained Brominated Vegetable Oil (BVO), an emulsifier used to keep the citrus flavoring from separating and floating to the top. BVO was the ingredient that led to MTN Dew being banned in over 100 countries, including the European Union and Japan, due to concerns over the accumulation of bromine in the body. Crucially, the FDA officially revoked the regulation authorizing the use of BVO in food in 2024, with a final compliance date of July 3, 2025. PepsiCo had already phased out BVO from the original MTN Dew formula in the US years ago due to consumer pressure, but this regulatory action solidifies its removal across the industry, making the modern recipe *BVO-free*.

The Yellow 5 (Tartrazine) Debate

The artificial dye Yellow 5 (Tartrazine) remains in the US formula and is a persistent point of contention. While the FDA deems it safe, the controversy stems from its potential to cause allergic reactions in a small percentage of people and its inclusion in the list of artificial colors linked to behavioral issues in children, such as hyperactivity. This dye is often cited as a key difference between the US and European versions of the soda, as the EU requires a warning label on products containing it.

High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS)

The use of HFCS, rather than cane sugar, is a major entity distinguishing many American sodas. While HFCS is chemically similar to table sugar, its sheer quantity in a 12-ounce serving—which contains 46 grams of sugar and 170 calories—is the main health concern, contributing to high sugar consumption.

MTN Dew Nutritional Facts (12 fl oz Can)

The following nutritional information is for a standard 12 fl oz can of original MTN Dew:

• Calories: 170
• Total Fat: 0g
• Sodium: 50 mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 46g
• Total Sugars: 46g (from High Fructose Corn Syrup)
• Protein: 0g
• Caffeine Content: Approximately 54 mg