Caffeinated energy drinks: what you should know

Caffeinated energy drinks are beverages or mixes that contain added caffeine, usually along with other ingredients, such as, vitamins, minerals, taurine and/or herbal ingredients. These products can also contain guarana and yerba mate, which are natural sources of caffeine. In Canada, caffeinated energy drinks can contain up to a maximum of 180 mg of caffeine per serving.

If you choose to consume caffeinated energy drinks, follow the cautionary statements that appear on their label and pay attention to your caffeine consumption. Adults 18 years and over should not consume more than 400 mg of caffeine per day.

Too much caffeine can have negative impacts on your health, such as insomnia, irritability, headaches and nervousness. CEDs are not recommended for those under 14 years old, those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, or people sensitive to caffeine as negative impacts on health may be more pronounced.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) recently recalled some caffeinated energy drinks for a variety of reasons including too much caffeine and improper labelling such as missing cautionary statements. Consumers should continue to report any consumption incidents about the safety of any food product to the CFIA. Consumers can also contact the company directly.