WASHINGTON — The Food and Drug Administration has notified nearly 30 manufacturers of caffeine-infused malt beverages that the agency intends to investigate the safety and legality of their products. The companies have 30 days to respond with studies, and other supporting evidence.
The move comes a year after the nation's largest brewers, Anheuser-Busch and MillerCoors, voluntarily agreed to stop making their brands of caffeine-laced malt beverages, Tilt and Bud Extra, and Sparks.
The drinks — marketed primarily to college-aged youths — have been criticized for deceptive advertising, and for fostering a perception that they're safer to drink than regular malt beverages.
"The increasing popularity of consumption of caffeinated alcoholic beverages by college students and reports of potential health and safety issues necessitates that we look seriously at the scientific evidence as soon as possible," said Dr. Joshua Sharfstein, the FDA's principal deputy commissioner of food and drugs.
At issue is whether caffeine can lawfully be added to alcoholic beverages without proper federal approval, officials said.
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