Let's face it: Life can be a little rough around the edges sometimes -- and we're not afraid to smooth out said edges by administering a well-crafted cocktail. We've written in the past about a delicious stout that incorporates espresso and about one of our favorite espresso and hazelnut-infused vodkas on the market, so you can imagine our concern when we started reading news last fall that the FDA was examining whether or not the combination of caffeine and alcohol was safe for public consumption.
In November of 2009, the FDA sent out requests to manufacturers who have been producing drinks that have both caffeine and alcohol in them, asking that the companies provide evidence that the combination can be safely ingested. Included in this investigation, however, were a few smaller breweries and distilleries that were incorporating coffee into their drinks.
With health agencies around the world examining the energy drink market because of the adverse impact it has had on the health of some populations (specifically college students), it's no surprise that alcoholic beverages with an additive of caffeine might also come under scrutiny. But will the FDA's inquiries lead to the discontinuation of the gourmet microbrews and distilled spirits that have a little kick in their step?
We followed up with PR rep Michael Herndon of the FDA to see where the investigation was at, and what type of impact -- if any -- the ruling may have on our favorite java stouts and coffee vodkas. According to him, none. "This FDA action is not directed at products that are flavored with coffee. At this time, the FDA is focusing its attention on products in which caffeine has been intentionally added to alcoholic beverages by the manufacturers." As of this writing, only 19 of the total 27 inquiries have received responses, and the next step is to review any scientific data on the subject. While there is no specific timeline in regard to when the FDA will make its final ruling on the subject, Herndon noted that it is a high priority at the agency.