With over $1 billion in sales for 2004, energy drinks like Red
Bull are the fastest growing division of the beverage industry.
However, consumers better beware for such drinks can pack a powerful
punch.
Similar to coffee, the surge of energy comes from high caffeine
content, and for energy drinks there's lots of it: A typical 8-ounce
can of Red Bull, for example, contains 80 milligrams of caffeine--which
its maker states is comparable to coffee--and is still more than
twice the caffeine in a 12-ounce can of Pepsi or Coke.
And, despite the outrageous cost of $2 per can, sales for these
energy drinks continue to skyrocket. Aside from Red Bull, additional
brands stocking grocery and convenient store shelves include:
- Amp
- Atomic
- No Fear
- Adrenaline Rush
When Abused, Energy Drinks Become Lethal
Mixing energy drinks with alcohol, which is combining a stimulant
with a depressant, has become an increasingly popular occurrence
at bars. When mixed with alcohol, drinks like Red Bull are instantly
morphed into popular club drinks like "Vodka Bulls" and
"Yager Bombs."
However, some countries like France and Denmark have banned sales
of Red Bull, claiming such drinks are associated with potential
health dangers due to high caffeine content. The action followed
several reported deaths of people who mixed the energy drink with
alcohol. Moreover, while caffeine drinks succeed in making drinkers
hyper, they can also raise heart rate and blood pressure.
In response to safety concerns, Red Bull strongly supports its
product, stating the drink is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration
and meets the agency's safety and labeling guidelines. A spokesperson
representing Red Bull claims there is no recognized connection between
the drink and the deaths mentioned.
Caffeinated Beer?
Along with mixing high-energy drinks with hard liquor, beer has
been added to the scene: Anheuser-Busch has released a caffeinated
beer with ginseng and guarana called B(E). The beverage sells for
about $6 for four 10-ounce cans; and with its 54 milligrams of caffeine
and blackberry and cherry aromas, this tartly sweet drink has been
projected for success.
WGAL-TV
February 4, 2005
Boston
Globe February 2, 2005
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