What’s the real problem with caffeine abuse associated with energy drinks? Johns Hopkins researchers say it is that the energy drinks are not properly labeled, so the consumer is not adequately informed. Although I doubt that the majority of caffeine abusers would change their habits if only there was a label on their can of “Cocaine”, I find this statement revealing:
Because many energy drinks are marketed as “dietary supplements,” the limit that the Food and Drug Administration requires on the caffeine content of soft drinks (71 milligrams per 12-ounce can) does not apply. The caffeine content of energy drinks varies from 50 to more than 500 milligrams.
Once again, the FDA has set arbitrary guidelines. The solution is not to limit the caffeine in energy drinks or to mandate caffeine content labeling – this will only impose yet another arbitrary guideline with unforeseen consequences. The real solution is to get rid of the charade that the FDA is protecting consumers.
9:29 am on September 24, 2008
