Officials: People should be concerned about aspartame and caffeine levels in drinks
A committee within the World Health Organization says aspartame, an artificial sweetener found in thousands of products, should be labeled as possible carcinogenic to humans.
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Health officials and lawmakers say they are concerned about the high levels of caffeine and artificial sweeteners found in drinks.
Sen. Chuck Schumer says people need to be aware of the amount of caffeine in energy drinks, such as Prime.
"An 8.4 ounce can of Red Bull has 80 milligrams of caffeine," says Schumer. "A 12 ounce can of Prime by contrast contains 200 milligrams of caffeine, more than 100% of Red Bull and close to 10 times as much as a 12 ounce can of Coca-Cola, close to 10 times as much. This is an eye-popping level of caffeine for a young kid's body."
He is calling on the FDA to investigate the drink because of its caffeine level and its marketing, which appeals to children.
Prime says its products are within safe guidelines.
Other beverages are being scrutinized because of a possible link to cancer.
A committee within the World Health Organization says aspartame, an artificial sweetener found in thousands of products, should be labeled as possible carcinogenic to humans.
"The recommendation that WHO made was to moderate both the consumption of free sugars and the consumption of sweeteners," says Dr. Francesco Branca, the director of nutrition and food safety at the WHO.
The finding is based on three studies, but the organization admits findings are limited and more research will need to be done to determine the risk to people who consume products containing aspartame in moderation.
