Red Bull Sales Suffer Over Cocaine Concerns
Published:28-May-2009
By Staff Reporter
Red Bull sales are facing a major blow in Germany after tests showed the drink contained minor amounts of cocaine.
In mid May, a study released by the German state of North Rhine Westfalia discovered traces of cocaine in the cola. It was not enough to prove harmful but the drink was qualified as a narcotic under German law.
Germany is considering a nationwide ban on Red Bull Cola; meanwhile, retailers in six German states have stopped selling the drink.
Red Bull Cola spokesman said: “De-cocainized extract of coca leaf is used worldwide in foods as a natural flavouring”. Red Bull claims that the use of the extract is regarded in the US and Europe as harmless and non-impairing.
Furthermore, the company said, the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment found the drink's ingredients posed no health risks and no risk of ‘undesired pharmacological effects including, any potential narcotic effects.’
The investigation found the drink to contain a de-cocainized extract of coca leaf in the drink. Authorities said the cocaine levels do not pose a health threat but are not permitted in foodstuffs.
