Scientists call for caffeine rules
This article was originally published in The Tan Sheet
Executive Summary
FDA should regulate labeling and composition of energy drinks, including requiring caffeine content statements, according to an Oct. 7 letter to the agency signed by 98 scientists and physicians with expertise in caffeine, pharmacology and drug abuse. The letter also recommends FDA "replace the current, unenforced 0.02 percent caffeine limit" on soft drinks "with a higher limit that is actually enforced," and mandate warning labels for energy drinks comparable to those used for OTC caffeine products. Roland Griffiths of Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine encourages FDA officials to read the peer-reviewed publication, "Caffeinated energy drinks - A growing problem," and take action in light of the introduction of alcoholic energy drinks such as MillerCoors' Sparks (1"The Tan Sheet" Sept. 29, 2008, In Brief and 2"The Tan Sheet" Sept. 15, 2008, In Brief)