Senators Richard Durbin (D-Ill.) and Richard Blumethal (D-Conn.) have responded to the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA’s) letter concerning actions the agency plans to take on energy drinks. While the senators “were pleased to learn that the FDA intends to release final guidance distinguishing liquid dietary supplements from beverages,” they contend that FDA’s response to their earlier request “did not address one of our greatest concerns, which include the potential interactions and cumulative effects of additives with stimulant properties in energy drinks with high levels of caffeine. While ginseng and other additives were not mentioned, your letter reviews taurine and guarana, which are generally regarded as safe (GRAS) food additives when used to add flavor.” The senators seek an explanation about the use of these ingredients to provide a stimulating effect and their safety when used this way. They also seek information about the agency’s consideration of “the unique health…
Category Archives Issue 453
U.S. Senators Frank Lautenberg (D-N.J.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) have reportedly joined the American Cancer Society’s Cancer Action Network and a coalition of federal, state and local public health organizations in urging U.S. Surgeon General Regina Benjamin to investigate the alleged association between sugar-sweetened drinks and rising obesity rates. According to a September 12, 2012, letter, the senators have asked Benjamin to conduct a study that would determine “the impact of sugary drinks on rates of American obesity and whether public health proposals that target sugary beverages will positively impact public health.” “As America’s waistline has expanded, so too has our access to sugary drinks,” states the letter. “Beverages like soda, sports drinks, lemonade, juice drinks, and sweetened teas are cheap and available everywhere. Doctors and public health experts recommend limiting and reducing the consumption of sugary drinks, especially in children, but kids and adults drink twice…
