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There is no shortage of products available for caffeine-craving consumers nowadays. But
the introduction of caffeinated chewing gum has spurred concerns by the federal government
about the well-being of children in relation to such stimulant-infused offerings.
The safety of energy drinks and energy shots are already under investigation by the Food
and Drug Administration, prompted by over 90 consumer reports of illness and death related
to alleged misuse of energy products in recent years.
The Chicago-based William Wrigley Junior Corporation unveiled Alert Energy Gum this week, promising
"the right energy, right now." Each piece packs 40 milligrams of caffeine, equivalent
to half a cup of coffee.
FDA Deputy Commissioner of Foods Michael Taylor said that the only time the agency explicitly
approved the practice of adding caffeine to foods or drinks involved colas in the 1950s.
In a statement this week on FDA's website Taylor added: "Today, the environment has
changed. Children and adolescents may be exposed to caffeine beyond those foods in which caffeine
is naturally found and beyond anything FDA envisioned...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 health, particularly vulnerable populations such as children and youth, and
if necessary, will take appropriate action."
In 2010, FDA forced the makers of alcoholic caffeinated beverages to cease production.
The agency said the combination of caffeine and alcohol could lead to a "wide-awake drunk"
and has led to alcohol poisoning, car accidents and assaults.
In nature, caffeine can act as a natural pesticide, where it is found in the fruit, leaves and
seeds of some plants. When consumed by people, caffeine rouses the central nervous system,
which temporarily relieves drowsiness and increases alertness. The stimulant is a native
compound within coffee, the second most heavily traded commodity in the world behind crude
oil.
The U.S. imports over $4 billion worth of coffee every year. According to a Zagat Survey,
the average age U.S. coffee drinkers begin consumption is 18.8 years. Manufacturers of
caffeinated foods and drinks appear to capitalize on that trend, claiming their products are
intended for responsible adults. Warning labels are found on many of these goods, which advise
against use by children, teenagers, and women who are pregnant or nursing.
Despite labels, critics argue it's not enough for companies to say they are marketing to
adults when caffeine is added to items like candy, which are attractive to children.
Major medical associations have warned that too much caffeine can be dangerous for kids,
who have less ability to process the stimulant than adults. The American Academy of Pediatrics
says caffeine has been linked to harmful effects on young people's developing neurologic and
cardiovascular systems.