Two States Ban Alcohol Based Energy Drinks

By Christopher Walker
Nov 11 2010

Washington and Michigan announced today that they have officially banned the sale of alcohol based energy drinks within the state.

This move by the state lawmakers is in relation to the incident several weeks ago where nine students from a Washington University were taken to the hospital after a night of drinking a beverage known as Four Loko.

The beverage is a potent blend of caffeine and alcohol with a sweet, fruit flavor. The companies have been accused of marketing the beverages directly to the college age children of the US by offering low prices, large flashy packaging, and fruit flavors.

Since the Washington incident, doctors have spoken out against the beverages, telling of the dangers of blending alcohol and caffeine. Research has shown that the two ingredients work against one another, which can lead to dangerous consequences including inability to feel the effects of the alcohol.

The ban that has been imposed in the two states is currently being challenged by the makers of the beverages. They have said that their products are no more dangerous than any other alcoholic beverage on the market. However, lawmakers pointed out that the alcohol content of one can of Four Loko was several times greater than the average beer.

Other states across the US are considering similar bans, hoping to protect the college students from a similar fate as those in Washington. However, the challenges to the bans could overturn the decision if the litigation is successful.