Wrigley's Puts Caffeinated Gum on Hold - East Idaho News
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Wrigley’s Puts Caffeinated Gum on Hold

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53175401?  SQUARESPACE CACHEVERSION=1368082685094Tim Boyle/Getty Images(WASHINGTON) — With the FDA investigating the safety of a new caffeinated gum, Wrigley’s Wednesday pulled the product off the market temporarily.

During the development of Alert Energy Caffeine Gum, Wrigley’s said they “took great strides to ensure that the product was formulated, distributed and marketed in a safe and responsible way to consumers 25 years old and over.  We exceeded all regulatory requirements on labeling and disclosure because we believe consumers should be informed about the amount of caffeine they are consuming in their food and beverage products so they can make smart choices.”

The company said that it welcomes changes in the regulatory framework for caffeinated products.

“In an effort to support this process, and out of respect for the FDA, we have paused the production, sales and marketing of Alert. This will give the FDA time to develop a new regulatory framework for the addition of caffeine to food and drinks,” the company said in a statement.

Lawmakers applauded Wrigley’s decision Wednesday. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., voiced his approval and expressed he has long been concerned about caffeine levels in products that kids may consume.

“This move by Wrigley is a welcome one but by no means the end of the story because there are many other products that have highly caffeinated ingredients,” Blumenthal said.

“The FDA needs to investigate and take action against excessive amounts of caffeine, especially when labels fail to tell parents about them,” he added.

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