FDA challenges Four Loko, others to prove drinks are safe

interns Contributor
Font Size:

After nearly a dozen party-going students were hospitalized in Washington state and authorities put some of the blame on a drink that mixes alcohol with caffeine, a popular version of the beverage called Four Loko has taken a lot of heat. But they are not the only drink that’s under scrutiny.

Late last year, at the urging of a group of state attorneys general, the FDA sent letters to nearly 30 manufacturers responsible for more than 40 alcoholic energy drinks asking for proof that their products are safe.

In the letters, the FDA said it had not yet made a determination on the safety of caffeine in alcoholic beverages and wondered how the companies had done so.

“The agency is not aware of the basis upon which you have or may have concluded that your use of caffeine in an alcoholic beverage is GRAS (generally regarded as safe),” it read. “Nor are we aware of a basis for concluding that your use of caffeine in these beverages is prior sanctioned.”

Many of products are marketed to look like energy drinks on grocery shelves, but can pack a real alcoholic punch.

Full story: Alcoholic beverages: FDA asked Four Loko, others to prove drinks are safe