The Food and Drug Administration is launching a new investigation into the effect of caffeine on children and teens, after the release of a new caffeinated gum. The gum, called Alert Energy Caffeine Gum, was made available by Mars Inc.'s Wrigley division this week.
The Food and Drug Administration has not approved the use of added caffeine in a food or drink since the 1950s, when it did so with Coca Cola. The new gum contains added caffeine.
"Today, the environment has changed," FDA Deputy Commissioner for Foods and Veterinary Medicine Michael Taylor said. "Children and adolescents may be exposed to caffeine beyond those foods in which caffeine is naturally found and beyond anything FDA envisioned when it made the determination regarding caffeine in cola. For that reason, FDA is taking a fresh look at the potential impact that the totality of new and easy sources of caffeine may have on the health of children and adolescents, and if necessary, will take appropriate action."
One piece of Alert Energy Caffeine gum holds 40 milligrams of caffeine, which is the same amount found in half a cup of coffee. According to Alert Energy's website, the gum is meant for adults who use caffeine responsibly and not for children.
"Millions of Americans consume caffeine responsibly and in moderation as art of their daily routines," Wrigley said in a statement. "Alert Energy Caffeine Gum is for adults who are looking for foods with caffeine for energy ... We are exceeding current regulatory requirements on labeling and disclosure because we believe consumers should be informed on the amount of caffeine they are consuming in their food and beverage products so they can make smart choices."
Alert Energy Caffeine is not the only caffeinated beverage to come under federal scrutiny. In November the Food and Drug Administration opened an investigation into 13 deaths thought to be possibly linked to the beverage 5-Hour Energy. Similar cases have been linked to Monster Energy Corp., which began marketing its products as beverages in March.
