Recent news reports have raised some concerns about popular energy drinks. According to Food and Drug Administration (FDA) records, the highly caffeinated energy shot 5-Hour Energy has been listed as a possible cause of 13 deaths and more than 30 serious injuries. This news comes less than a month after reports that highly caffeinated energy drinks sold under the brand name Monster Energy were listed as a possible cause of 5 deaths. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is currently investigating these reports to determine if the cause of death can be attributed to the drinks. There are many other similar products on the market for which data has not been released.
The FDA investigation is ongoing and it will likely be some time before the public has an answer regarding the safety of highly caffeinated energy drinks like 5-Hour Energy and Monster Energy. Though not conclusive, this news does serve as a reminder that just because a product is on the market does not necessarily mean that it is safe. And while the FDA is generally responsible for ensuring that our food is safe, unsafe food products may still end up on our shelves. When death or injury is caused by an unsafe product, the ultimate responsibility lies with those responsible for putting the product on the shelves - the company or companies that designed, developed, manufactured, distributed, and sold the product.
If you or a family member was injured or killed by an unsafe or defective product, you have the right to consult with an attorney to discuss your legal rights.