Energy drink deaths: experts want action

A spate of deaths in the United States linked to a highly caffeinated energy drink will be studied as part of a transtasman review. Two nutrition experts want the review hastened, with one calling energy drinks "dangerous stuff".

The US Food and Drug Administration has started an inquiry into the safety of Monster Energy drinks after receiving reports of five deaths.

Ministers responsible for transtasman food and beverage regulation last year launched a full review of the policy guideline on caffeine, including the amount of caffeine in energy drinks.

The transtasman Food Regulation Standing Committee (FRSC) Caffeine Working Group is looking at global developments in caffeinated products and regulatory approaches being taken in other countries.

Monster and other energy drinks including Red Bull, Mother, and Demon all contain the maximum 32mg caffeine per 100ml which is concidered safe but it is known that excessive caffeine can lead to irritability, anxiety, dizziness, tremors, and insomnia.


Kerry Tyack, executive director of the NZ Juice and Beverage Association, said while the US fatalities had been tragic, it was unfair to criticise drink manufacturers.

"These are drinks designed for adults, not children. These are also drinks that should not be taken in excess.

"The average energy drink contains 80mg of caffeine - that's about a cup of coffee - and obviously children should be nowhere near these drinks. People need to read the labels and abide by what the regulations say."