Beware The Caffeinated Sweet

We are all well aware of Redbull, Monster and similar ‘energy drinks’ that have large amounts of caffeine in them, as well as ridiculous levels of sugar and additives.

Can the same be said regarding how much we know about caffeinated sweets?

They might sound like a fun Christmas gift but please be aware of what you are eating, or giving to others as a present.

This warning comes as a 40 year-old man, who rarely drank either tea of coffee but occasionally enjoyed Coca-Cola has died of a massive caffeine overdose, from a pack of caffeinated mints.

John Jackson had eaten a £4 pack of Hero Instant Energy mints. Each of the 12 sweets had the same amount of caffeine in them as a can of Redbull.

His death has sparked outcry from his family and the public as these mints are being sold alongside regular chewing gum and sweets popular with younger children.

A Hero spokesperson has commented on the tragedy saying they fully understand the potentially fatal effects of a caffeine overdose and have made every attempt to clearly label packaging, advertising, websites and promotional information to make the public fully aware.

Despite being 12 mints in each pack, the label clearly advises not to consume more than 5 in 24 hours.

His distraught daughters have voiced their concern regarding them being classified as similar and sold alongside, Polos, Extra Strong Mints and other harmless confectionery and are calling for stricter guidelines.

It is certain that if a child was to have even a few of these particular branded mints, and possibly others like them that the effects could be devastating.

Hero have stated that they are a beginner business (2011) and are deeply upset regarding the first major incident in relation to their product.

One can of Redbull is approximately 80 milligrams per 250 millilitres.

Roughly the same as a cup of coffee, depending on blend and quality.

Regardless of beverage or confectionery, we must remind you that caffeine is a stimulant, it can be addictive and there are side effects.

People with a sensitivity or any medical conditions should really consider these facts before partaking in any product with a high caffeine level.

Children have more energy to burn that adults as it is, we recommend that they don’t partake in energy drinks or coffee, for their health – not just to avoid keeping their parents up all night.

We can only hope that some good comes from this tragedy and more work is done to warn the public about the possible fatal effects of a caffeine overdose.