Group calls for caffeine content labeling

WASHINGTON, Oct. 7 (UPI) -- A U.S. non-profit health advocacy group has asked the federal government to require firms to list the caffeine content on their caffeinated energy drinks.

Michael F. Jacobson, executive director of the Center for Science in the Public Interest in Washington, as well as almost 100 scientists and physicians who are experts in the areas of caffeine, pharmacology, drug abuse or drug abuse policy have signed a letter to the Food and Drug Administration urging caffeine labeling.

"The case for caffeine labeling is now more urgent because of the new and growing category of highly caffeinated energy drinks," the letter said, noting the American Medical Association and others support labeling, and a growing number of major manufacturers are voluntarily doing so.

Some products contain caffeine in amounts equivalent to more than 14 12-ounce cans of Coca-Cola Classic or five 6-ounce cups of coffee, said Roland Griffiths, a leading expert on caffeine at Johns Hopkins University, said in the letter.

The FDA should require warning labels, similar to those mandated for over-the-counter caffeine products, on foods, beverages and dietary supplements containing more than a specified level of caffeine. When appropriate, the warning should indicate the risk of combining these products with alcohol, the letter said.