FDA orders review of energy drinks

In a statement, FDA Director General Nela Puno said Ravena’s case would a good opportunity to re-examine the content and labelling of energy drinks. (Photo: Food and Drug Administration Philippines/ Facebook)

MANILA — Amid the controversy surrounding Philippine basketball player Kiefer Ravena, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Tuesday called for a review of available workout and energy drinks in the market.

In a statement, FDA Director General Nela Puno said Ravena’s case would a good opportunity to re-examine the content and labelling of energy drinks.

“I will immediately direct a thorough review of these products to protect the health and fitness conscious public,” Puno said.

Under the FDA Act of 2009, the agency is mandated to ensure the safety, efficacy, purity, and quality of food products, medicines, cosmetics, and medical devices.

On Monday, the Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP) announced that Ravena had been suspended for 18 months by the International Basketball Federation (FIBA).

Ravena was tested positive for three banned substances believed from a pre-workout drink he took called “DUST”, back in February while he was playing for the Gilas Pilipinas national men’s basketball team.

Meanwhile, in an interview, health reform advocate Dr. Anthony Leachon expressed support to FDA’s move.

Leachon said that having a set of guidelines, especially proper labelling for energy drinks, is needed.

He said unregulated energy drinks may cause cardiac arrhythmia, high blood pressure, lack of sleep, among others.

“FDA guidelines are badly needed at this point in time…at the moment, it’s over-the-counter, and people don’t know what they’re taking,” he said.