(Washington, DC) - This evening, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) issued the following statement in response to reports that Wrigley is pulling its caffeinated gum "Alert Energy" off the market pending the results of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) investigation into the health effects of caffeine added to food products and beverages:
“Wrigley made the right choice, but many other commonly consumed food products like candy, snacks, gum and energy drinks are highly caffeinated, mislabeled and marketed to children. Stronger action is vital right away to protect kids from excessive caffeine and deceptive pitches. Voluntary steps, while welcome, are insufficient.”