Government of Canada Recalls Energy Drinks Over Caffeine Content and Labeling Violations
In a recent move, the government of Canada has issued a recall for six brands of energy drinks, including Prime Energy, due to their high caffeine content and labeling violations. According to Canadian regulations, the legal limit for caffeine in energy drinks is set at 180 milligrams in a single-serving can. However, Prime Energy, a popular energy drink made by YouTube stars Logan Paul and KSI, contains 200 milligrams per 12-ounce can, which is nearly six times the amount found in a regular Coca-Cola.
Logan Paul addressed the Canadian recall in a video posted on Instagram, stating that Prime Energy is not even distributed in Canada. He claims that any Prime Energy found on store shelves in Canada is the result of illegal or unauthorized imports. Paul also emphasized that his drinks are compliant with each specific country’s regulatory bodies.
Similarly, 5-Hour Energy has reported that the product subject to the Canadian recall, a drink sold in 16-ounce cans, is also the result of unauthorized imports. The company spokesperson stated that the 16-ounce version is not sold in Canada through authorized channels.
Celsius, another energy drink brand, stated that the products recalled in Canada are being illegally imported. The company denied shipping or authorizing the distribution of Celsius products in Canada, stating that if they ever do in the future, they would be fully compliant with Health Canada regulations.
Sting, a popular energy drink owned by PepsiCo, also responded to the recall, affirming that it follows the regulations set out by the countries in which it sells its products. PepsiCo Canada clarified that it does not sell or import STING in Canada.
The Canadian government has taken action on unauthorized imports, noting that some stores in Canada may be selling Prime Energy without approval. Health Canada and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) stated that they are actively working to address this issue.
Aside from the caffeine content violation, the agency highlighted that these brands also violated bilingual labeling laws in Canada. The country’s regulations require food products to have information in both French and English.
Other brands affected by the recall are 3D Alphaland and GFuel. They have not responded to requests for comment on the matter.
The implications of these energy drinks have also caught the attention of US Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer. He called on the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to investigate Prime Energy products, expressing concern over their popularity among kids and teens. Schumer stressed that the drinks contain more caffeine than is safe for child consumption. The FDA responded that it is reviewing his concerns.
While healthy adults can consume up to 400 milligrams of caffeine daily without harm, there is no set limit for children and teens. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises children under 12 to avoid caffeine altogether. The academy further warns that energy drinks pose a health risk to kids and adolescents due to their stimulants and should not be consumed in this age group.
The Canadian government’s recall serves as a reminder to both consumers and manufacturers to prioritize safety and adherence to regulations when it comes to energy drinks.