Trinidad looks to Jamaica for regulations on energy drinks

Restrictions will soon be placed on the importation of energy drinks and health advisories would be made mandatory on the products.

That’s according to Health Minister, Dr Fuad Khan.

According to the Newsday Dr. Khan said the actions have become necessary as there has been an influx of applications to import energy drinks — some of which have been banned in a number of European countries.

In order to develop regulatory frameworks to regulate the energy drink industry, Khan said his Ministry will look at the Jamaican requirements on importation and promotion of such drinks.

He explained that advisories, such as those associated with the sale of cigarettes and alcohol would become mandatory.

He also explained that the level of caffeine in the products will also be looked at. Khan described the level of caffeine found in some energy drinks as “toxic,” saying the caffeine content can be equivalent to that found in ten cups of coffee.

he also warned that consuming energy drinks, especially when mixing them with alcohol, can be deadly.

As such, the Minister said he would launch a campaign to educate the population on the dangers of consuming energy drinks.

Dr Khan  reportedly added that two drinks were approved for consumption -  namely Monster Energy Drinks and Red Bull.