In response to “Energy Drink Exposures in the National Poison Data System: Epidemiology and Clinical Effect,” an abstract being presented today at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2014, the American Beverage Association issued the following statement:

Statement

“This abstract has not been published and therefore the authors’ full methodology and analysis is not available for review. In the past, various experts have raised concerns regarding misinterpretation and inherent limitations of data from National Poison Data System when it comes to Energy Drinks.  Based on the most recent government data reported in the journal Pediatrics, children under 12 have virtually no caffeine consumption from energy drinks.  

Even so, leading energy drink makers voluntarily place advisory statements on energy drink packaging stating that energy drinks are not recommended for children. They also have voluntarily pledged not to market these products to children or sell them in K-12 schools. These guidelines and more are noted in the ABA Guidance on the Responsible Labeling and Marketing of Energy Drinks.”

 

Additional Background

On the Abstract:

It is important to recognize that not all exposure-related reports to poison centers represent poisoning – or any adverse clinical effect for that matter.  There are both strengths and weaknesses in the poison control data collection system, including how information is collected, documented, tabulated and disseminated. Information from the American Association of Poison Control Centers’ shows that exposure reports allegedly related to energy drink exposure, are presently at their lowest levels since 2011. 

On Energy Drinks:

Energy drinks have been enjoyed safely by millions of people around the world for more than 25 years, and in the United States for more than 15 years.

On Caffeine:

Caffeine has been safely consumed, in a variety of foods and beverages, around the world for hundreds of years. A vast body of available and reliable science supports the safety of caffeine, including at the levels found in mainstream energy drinks.

 

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The American Beverage Association is the trade association representing the broad spectrum of companies that manufacture and distribute non-alcoholic beverages in the United States.  For more information on ABA, please visit the association’s Web site at www.ameribev.org or call the ABA communications team at (202) 463-6770.

 

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