The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has issued a public advisory to raise awareness about the consumption of caffeinated energy drinks (CEDs) and the potential health effects. The notice, published on August 21, provides consumers with information on consuming these beverages.
Caffeinated energy drinks are beverages or concoctions to which added caffeine is added, often along with various other ingredients such as vitamins, minerals, taurine and botanicals. These products may also contain natural caffeine sources like guarana and yerba mate. In Canada, these drinks are allowed to have a maximum caffeine content of 180 mg per serving.
Consumers are urged to carefully examine product labels to determine caffeine content per serving, number of servings in container and recommended daily consumption. It is recommended that IBDs not be consumed by anyone under the age of 14, pregnant or breastfeeding women, or anyone sensitive to caffeine. Adults 18 years and older are recommended not to exceed the daily caffeine intake of 400 mg.
Excessive caffeine consumption can lead to adverse health effects such as insomnia, irritability, headaches and nervousness. The CFIA recently recalled certain caffeinated energy drinks due to high levels of caffeine and mislabeling, including a lack of warning labels. Consumers are encouraged to report all consumption-related incidents to the CFIA and may also contact manufacturers directly.
To ensure safety, the CFIA recommends that children, those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, and those sensitive to caffeine refrain from consuming caffeinated energy drinks. Others are advised to limit intake and heed warnings on product labels.
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