"We believe that alcoholic energy drinks constitute a serious health and safety risk for America's youth," said the Attorneys General in today's letter. They listed a number of products and advertisements that "warrant investigation and possible enforcement action ... because they contain misleading health-related claims regarding the products' effects, in violation of federal regulations." The products mentioned included Miller Brewing Company's Sparks and Sparks Plus, Anheuser-Busch's Bud Extra, and Charge Beverages' Liquid Charge and Liquid Core.
The Marin Institute report noted that adding alcohol to energy drinks presents a serious danger for young people. Caffeine, a stimulant, masks the intoxicating effects of alcohol, and may lead to increased risk-taking. In addition, youth are known to suffer from higher rates of alcohol problems, including alcohol-related traffic accidents, violence, sexual assault, and suicide.