Wrigley stops making caffeinated gum

FDA raised questions about its effects.

May 8, 2013 at 10:58PM
(The Minnesota Star Tribune)
(The Minnesota Star Tribune)

Wrigley has decided to stop production, sales and marketing of its new caffeinated gum, the Food and Drug Administration announced Wednesday.

The company's decision follows meetings with the FDA to discuss the government agency's concerns about the effect the gum has on children and adolescents.

One piece of Alert Energy Caffeine Gum has 40 mg of caffeine, the same amount found in a half cup of coffee.

"The FDA applauds Wrigley's decision and its recognition that we need to improve understanding and, as needed, strengthen the regulatory framework governing the appropriate levels and uses of caffeine in foods and beverages," said Michael Taylor, deputy commissioner for foods and veterinary medicine. "The company's action demonstrates real leadership and commitment to the public health. We hope others in the food industry will exercise similar restraint."

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about the writer

about the writer

Colleen Stoxen

Deputy Managing Editor for News Operations

Colleen Stoxen oversees hiring, intern programs, newsroom finances, news production and union relations. She has been with the Minnesota Star Tribune since 1987, after working as a copy editor and reporter at newspapers in California, Indiana and North Dakota.

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