FDA to examine safety of caffeinated alcoholic beverages

Prodded by the attorneys general of California and 17 other states, the Food and Drug Administration is asking the makers of caffeinated alcoholic beverages to provide evidence that their drinks are safe.

The FDA this morning said it has contacted nearly 30 drink manufacturers seeking safety information on the drinks.

Under federal law, an ingredient can't be added to a food or beverage unless it's been approved by the FDA or is generally recognized as safe. The FDA has never approved caffeine as an additive to alcoholic beverages.

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