Indian State Seizes Red Bull®, Caffeine Content Above Legal Limits
The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (MFDA) has reportedly seized more than 1 million cans of Red Bull®, an energy drink containing 250-300 parts per million (ppm) of caffeine, on the ground that the product exceeds the 145 ppm limit for carbonated beverages. according to a press report, no separate standards for caffeine in energy drinks exist, but the Food Safety and Standard Act 2006 states that all drinks containing caffeine should follow the carbonated beverage rules. The nation’s Food Safety and Standards Authority is developing a new energy drink category that could allow higher caffeine content.
The action is apparently the second in India; Tamil Nadu has also evidently targeted the beverage for exceeding caffeine limits. MFDA Commissioner Mahesh Zagade reportedly said, “Caffeine is addictive and it has a long-term impact. Youngsters today are increasingly consuming alcohol with Red Bull. Parents should be keeping a check on what their children are drinking.” He also reportedly noted, “Manufacturers claim it’s an energy drink and not a carbonated drink. But when you open a Red Bull can, there’s fizz and it contains carbon dioxide. We are preparing for legal battle.” See Hindustan Times, March 30, 2012.
