Panera Bread has recently announced that they are phasing out their “Charged Lemonade” drinks, which were known for their high caffeine content. This decision follows lawsuits filed after the deaths of at least two individuals were allegedly linked to the beverage. While Panera states this is part of a menu transformation focusing on lower sugar and caffeine options, the controversy surrounding the drink raises important questions about caffeine consumption and labeling.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) suggests that 400 milligrams of caffeine per day is safe for the average adult. This is roughly equivalent to four or five cups of coffee. What made Panera’s Charged Lemonade different, and potentially dangerous for some, was its high caffeine concentration.
The Caffeine Content of Panera’s Charged Lemonade
According to Panera’s website, the “Charged Lemonade” contained up to 390 milligrams of caffeine. To put that into perspective, an 8.4 fluid ounce can of Red Bull contains 80 milligrams of caffeine. This significant difference is what made the drink a concern for some consumers.
Expert Opinions on Caffeine and Charged Lemonade
Adam Woolley, a clinical professor and director of assessment at the School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences at Northeastern University, explains that caffeine is a stimulant that can be addictive and cause side effects. While he notes that “the average healthy person can be pretty confident in taking caffeine safely in reasonable doses,” individual reactions can vary.
Woolley emphasized the importance of being mindful of caffeine content and individual reactions, especially for those with pre-existing health conditions.
Lawsuits and Labeling Concerns
One of the lawsuits against Panera was filed by the family of Sarah Katz, who had a cardiac arrhythmia that made her sensitive to caffeine. The lawsuit argued that Panera did not adequately label the “Charged Lemonade” as an energy drink. Similarly, the family of Dennis Brown, who had high blood pressure and other health issues, filed a lawsuit claiming he died of a cardiac arrest after consuming three “Charged Lemonades.”
Following the initial lawsuit, Panera reportedly added enhanced disclosures, advising moderation and caution for those sensitive to caffeine or who are pregnant or nursing.
The “Charged” Misnomer
Darin Detwiler, a food safety expert and associate teaching professor at Northeastern University, argues that the term “charged” may not be a sufficient indicator of the drink’s high caffeine content. He suggests that terms like “Monster drink lemonade” or “energy drink lemonade” would more clearly communicate the potential caffeine level.
Detwiler highlights the importance of clear labeling, stating, “Would the average American adult assume that Panera is selling you a lemonade that could have that much caffeine in it? I would be willing to imagine the answer is no.”
The Bigger Picture: Caffeine Awareness
The Panera “Charged Lemonade” controversy underscores the need for consumers to be aware of the caffeine content in their beverages. While a cup of coffee is easily recognizable, caffeine can be found in various drinks and foods, sometimes in unexpected amounts. Checking nutrition labels and understanding your own sensitivity to caffeine are crucial steps in making informed choices about your health.
