YouTube Stars’ Energy Drink Under Scrutiny for High Caffeine Levels, Calls for FDA Investigation
New York, NY – PRIME, an energy drink brand backed by YouTube stars Logan Paul and KSI, is facing criticism from lawmakers and health experts due to its potentially dangerous levels of caffeine. The beverage, which has gained viral popularity among children, is now under scrutiny as concerns over its impact on young consumers increase.
Sen. Charles Schumer called on the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to investigate PRIME on Sunday. The brand, being promoted extensively by influential YouTube personalities, has become an obsession for many of their young followers. Schumer, a Democrat from New York, warned that the beverage poses a serious health concern for the targeted kids.
Considering the immediate success of PRIME since its launch last year, Schumer’s concerns appear to be justified. Reports of long queues in grocery stores and even schoolyard resale markets have indicated the drink’s massive popularity. PRIME markets itself as zero sugar and vegan, joining the ranks of a growing number of energy drinks with high caffeine levels. In the case of PRIME, each 12-ounce can contains a staggering 200 milligrams of caffeine.
The elevated caffeine content has since led to bans in some schools in the United Kingdom and Australia. Pediatricians in these countries have voiced concerns about potential health impacts on children, including heart problems, anxiety, and digestive issues.
PRIME’s representatives have defended the product, stating that it is clearly labeled “not recommended for children under 18.” They also highlighted the availability of their separate sports drink, PRIME Hydration, which contains no caffeine. However, Schumer argued in his letter to the FDA that there is little discernible difference in the online marketing of the two drinks. This has misled parents into purchasing what they believed to be a harmless juice for their children, only to discover they had inadvertently provided them with a “cauldron of caffeine.”
Schumer further emphasized the need for an investigation by citing the extensive amount of sponsored content on social media platforms related to PRIME. He urged the FDA to examine the claims made, as well as the ingredients and caffeine content of the energy drink.
As of now, representatives for PRIME have not responded to requests for comment on the matter. It remains to be seen how the FDA will address the concerns raised by lawmakers and health experts regarding the potential risks associated with PRIME.