The Consumers Association of Singapore (CASE) has warned youths against mixing caffeinated drinks after “all six combinations” it tested exceeded 100mg of caffeine per serving.
In a Facebook post published by CASE president Melvin Yong on Tuesday (22 Sept), CASE looked at commonly mixed caffeinated drinks, including energy drinks, espresso, and matcha.
The highest-tested combination contained 282.1mg of caffeine in a 350g serving.
That is nearly three times the 100mg daily reference point for adolescents aged 12 to 18.
Source: Consumers Association of Singapore
CASE tested six combinations of caffeinated drinks to inform consumers about their caffeine levels.
Four combinations, each containing one energy drink, contained between 100.45mg and 106.4mg of caffeine per 350g serving.
The other two combinations contained substantially more caffeine.
The highest-tested combination contained two energy drinks, Monster and Red Bull, together with espresso.
It contained 282.1mg of caffeine per 350g serving.
CASE said this was equivalent to about three cups of brewed coffee.
Source: Melvin Yong 杨益财 on Facebook
The tests were intended to show how quickly caffeine can add up when different sources are combined.
CASE president Melvin Yong said some youths may turn to caffeinated drinks to stay alert as exams approach.
“I encourage youths and parents to check caffeine information on product labels where available [and] keep track of caffeine consumed throughout the day,” he said.
CASE advised consumers to avoid mixing multiple caffeinated drinks in a single serving.
It also recommended avoiding caffeine late in the day to support better sleep.
High caffeine intake can cause symptoms including headaches, rapid heart rate, anxiety, tremors, and insomnia, according to CASE.
Source: Health Hub website
For adolescents aged 12 to 18, the American Academy of Paediatrics recommends limiting caffeine intake to 100mg a day.
For healthy adults, the Health Promotion Board advises a daily caffeine limit of up to 400mg.
According to a press release seen by MS News, CASE said that there is currently no internationally recognised health-based guidance on daily caffeine intake.
Several commenters questioned CASE’s role in issuing an advisory about caffeine consumption.
One asked whether CASE was “expanding their scope” into health drinks or taking over the role of the health statutory boards.
Source: Facebook
Another questioned why CASE was issuing the advisory instead of the Health Promotion Board.
Source: Facebook
A commenter also asked for more details about CASE’s test findings, while another raised concerns about possible future regulation or taxation.
CASE, however, describes providing consumers “with new and updated research findings, survey results and information” as part of its consumer-protection work, helping them make more informed purchasing decisions.
Its stated role includes providing consumers with research findings, survey results and information to help them make informed purchasing decisions.
The latest caffeine test was presented as consumer information and an awareness effort, rather than an announcement of new regulations.
CASE also advised consumers who experience persistent discomfort or sleep-related issues after consuming caffeinated drinks to seek medical advice.
Also read: ‘It’s not US$10’: Starbucks CEO defends S$11 coffee price, calls it a ‘special experience’
Have news you must share? Get in touch with us via email at news@mustsharenews.com.
Featured image adapted from the Health Hub website and the Consumers Association of Singapore – CASE on Facebook.