ARAB BACKLASH STRETCHES TO...GUM ARABIC?

ARAB BACKLASH STRETCHES TO...GUM ARABIC?

WASHINGTON, D.C. (Wireless Flash) – The terrorist attacks are leaving a bad taste in the mouths of beer buffs and soda pop drinkers. It seems some consumers have begun to object to an ingredient called “gum arabic,” which is a food additive used in many citrus-flavored sodas and to keep beer foamy. Sean McBride of the National Soft Drink Association says since the disaster, some consumers are simply objecting to anything “arabic” while others are angry because 70 percent of gum arabic comes from Sudan, which was home to Osama bin Laden until 1996. Bin Laden actually tried to corner the gum arabic market but U.S. officials say he’s been disinvested since 1996. McBride says he hopes President Bush’s suggestion for Americans not to unfairly blame innocent Arab- or Muslim-Americans will also carry over to gum arabic as well. In his words, “Drinking a Fresca doesn’t mean you’re supporting terrorism.”

Tue 09-18-01