Share This PageCanada to limit caffeine sold in energy drinks
By Erica Johnson
Thursday, October 6, 2011, 5:49 PM
The federal government is putting limits on the amount of caffeine allowed in energy drinks.
Health minister Leona Aglukkaq announced today that Health Canada will not allow more than 180 milligrams of caffeine per serving - far higher than the 80 milligrams recommended by a panel of health experts convened to advise the health regulator.
Energy drink makers will also have to clearly label the amount of caffeine in each product, as well as the levels and types of any added vitamins or minerals.
And, although products will have to carry warnings that energy drinks shouldn't be mixed with alcohol, and aren't suitable for pregnant or breast-feeding women or children, the government ignored calls to only allow sales of energy drinks in pharmacies, to people over 18. Aglukkaq said she wanted to allow for "consumer choice".
Marketplace investigated the energy drink Red Bull six years ago, and discovered that health warnings about the popular drink were being ignored.
You can watch the full episode of "Raging Bull" below:
Health minister Leona Aglukkaq announced today that Health Canada will not allow more than 180 milligrams of caffeine per serving - far higher than the 80 milligrams recommended by a panel of health experts convened to advise the health regulator.
Energy drink makers will also have to clearly label the amount of caffeine in each product, as well as the levels and types of any added vitamins or minerals.
And, although products will have to carry warnings that energy drinks shouldn't be mixed with alcohol, and aren't suitable for pregnant or breast-feeding women or children, the government ignored calls to only allow sales of energy drinks in pharmacies, to people over 18. Aglukkaq said she wanted to allow for "consumer choice".
Marketplace investigated the energy drink Red Bull six years ago, and discovered that health warnings about the popular drink were being ignored.
You can watch the full episode of "Raging Bull" below:
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