Crackdown on Energy Drinks

The UK Food and Standards Agency has called for stricter regulation on medicinal herbs and plant extracts used in energy drinks.

The proposals would force manufacturers to prove herbs such as ginseng, guarauna and echinacea are safe for consumption, or be prepared to print health warnings on labels.

Guarauna, a South American herb, contains high levels of caffeine and may be dangerous to those with a history of heart disease, or to breast feeding women. Ginseng should be avoided during bouts of flu and echinacea is believed to damage the immune system after prolonged heavy use.

The UK market for energy drinks is currently valued at £178 million.

Saturday, 30 June 2001