FDA urged to investigate Logan Paul's PRIME energy drink

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
9 Jul 2023 22:57

The neon-colored cans, which claim to be zero sugar and vegan, contain 200 milligrams of caffeine per 12 ounces, equivalent to about half a dozen Coke cans or nearly two Red Bulls.

A child holds a PRIME hydration at a baseball game in Los Angeles on March 31. (AP)

Lawmakers and health experts are raising concerns over a popular energy drink endorsed by influencers due to its potentially dangerous levels of caffeine. PRIME, a brand founded by YouTube stars Logan Paul and KSI, is facing scrutiny for its high level of caffeine.

US Senator Charles Schumer urged the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to investigate the beverage. The neon-colored cans, which claim to be zero sugar and vegan, contain 200 milligrams of caffeine per 12 ounces, equivalent to about half a dozen Coke cans or nearly two Red Bulls. Some schools in the UK and Australia have already banned PRIME due to concerns over health impacts on young children, including heart problems, anxiety, and digestive issues.

“One of the summer’s hottest status symbols for kids is not an outfit, or a toy—it’s a beverage,” said Schumer, a Democrat from New York. “But buyer and parents beware because it’s a serious health concern for the kids it so feverishly targets.”

While the company defends the product, stating it is not recommended for children under 18 and offering a separate caffeine-free sports drink, Schumer argues that the online marketing of both products is similar and could mislead parents.

Additionally, he called for an investigation into the advertising, ingredients, and caffeine content of PRIME energy drinks.

In his letter to the FDA, he wrote, “A simple search on social media for Prime will generate an eye-popping amount of sponsored content, which is advertising,” adding that “this content and the claims made should be investigated, along with the ingredients and the caffeine content in the Prime energy drink.”