and U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) confirmed it is reviewing the safety of energy drinks containing caffeine and other ingredients that act as stimulants,and may require regulatory action if evidence of a health risk is found.
The FDA said they warrant investigation: “New products and patterns of use require us to remain vigilant, and we are working to strengthen our understanding of the nature of energy drinks and any causal risks to health.”
The review includes examining adverse
event reports and consulting with experts outside of FDA to better understand risks posed by energy drinks, additives and high levels of caffeine consumption in youth. If their review finds safety concerns, FDA will consider regulatory action.
“Depending on the outcome ofour ongoing review, which includes caffeine alone and in combination with other ingredients, we will take action as needed with respect to the levels of caffeine in these products,” Michele Mital, the FDA’s acting associate commissioner for legislation, wrote in the letter. “In
addition, based on our safety review and within the bounds of our authority, FDA will consider taking appropriate action with respect to the labeling of these products, such as requiring disclosure of the amount of caffeine in food products, limitations on intended use, or warnings about possible adverse effects.” (CSP Daily News: www.cspnet.com)
