Rapport de l'Efsa

Supporting Publications 2013:EN-394

EXTERNAL SCIENTIFIC REPORT

Gathering consumption data on specific consumer groups of energy drinks 1
NOMISMA-ARETÉ Consortium2:
Silvia Zucconia, Chiara Volpatoa, Felice Adinolfia, Evita Gandini a,
Enrica Gentileb, Alberico Loi b, Linda Fioriti b
a

Nomisma SpA

b

Areté Srl

1

Question No EFSA-Q-2011-00309.

2

The Nomisma-Areté consortium acknowledges the EFSA steering Group and in particular the following staff members for
their support and teamwork: Tobin Robinson (EMRISK Unit), Arianna Chiusolo (EMRISK Unit), Andrea Altieri (EMRISK
Unit), Jean-Lou Dorne (EMRISK Unit), Davide Arcella (DCM Unit).
Any enquiries related to this output should be addressed to emrisk@efsa.europa.eu
Suggested citation: Zucconi S., Volpato C., Adinolfi F., Gandini E., Gentile E., Loi A., Fioriti L.; “Gathering consumption
data on specific consumer groups of energy drinks”. Supporting Publications 2013:EN-394. [190 pp.]. Available online:
www.efsa.europa.eu/publications

© European Food Safety Authority, 2013.

Gathering consumption data on specific consumer groups of energy
drinks

ABSTRACT
At the end of 2011, a study was commissioned by EFSA to the Consortium Nomisma-Areté, with the
objective of gathering consumption data for “energy” drinks (ED) in specific consumer groups (adults,
adolescents and children) in EU. The study also aims at estimating, for each consumer group, the
exposure to specific active ingredients (caffeine, taurine, and D-glucurono-y-lactone) from ED
consumption, and the relative contribution of ED to the total caffeine exposure. Moreover, specific
consumption habits (co-consumption with alcohol and consumption associated to intense physical
exercise) were analysed for adolescents and adults.
Between February and November 2012, the study team conducted an EU-wide questionnaire-based
survey - involving more than 52.000 participants from 16 different EU Member States3 - among adults
(14.500 participants), adolescents (32.000), and children (5.500).
The highest prevalence of consumption4 was observed for the adolescent consumers group (68%). In
adults prevalence for consumption was 30%, and 18% in children. Among consumers, no relevant
differences were observed in the target groups for prevalence of high chronic consumers5 (12% in
adults and adolescents, 16% in children) and high acute consumers6 (11% for adults and 12% for
adolescents).
Concerning co-consumption with alcohol, similar prevalence was observed for adults (56%) and
adolescents (53%). Consumption associated to sport activities showed prevalence of 52% in adults and
41% in adolescents.
Among ED consumers, the estimated average exposures from ED to caffeine, taurine and Dglucurono-y-lactone were higher in children (1,01, 12,83 and 5,13 mg/kg b.w./day, respectively) than
adolescents (0,38, 4,6 and 1,65 mg/kg b.w./day, respectively) and adults (0,32, 3,82 and 1,78 mg/kg
b.w./day, respectively). The calculated contribution from ED consumption to total caffeine exposure
was 8% for adults, 13% for adolescents and 43% for children. The contribution increased for the high
chronic consumers to 13% in adults, 16% in adolescents and 48% in children.
© Nomisma-Areté consortium 2012. Parts of this publication may be reproduced, provided acknowledgement is
given to the „Nomisma-Areté consortium‟ , along with the authors, title and year of publication as mentioned on
page 1.

KEY WORDS
Energy drinks, caffeine, taurine, D-glucurono-y-lactone, active ingredients, survey, consumption.

3

Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Germany, Greece, Finland, France, Hungary, Italy, Poland,
Romania, Spain, Sweden, The Netherlands, United Kingdom.
4
In the present study “consumers” of ED are subjects who declared to have drunk ED at least once over the last
year.
5
In the present study “high chronic” consumers are respondents who regularly consumed ED “4-5 days a week”
or more (identified in relation to a frequency distribution for ED consumption greater than or equal to the 90 th
percentile).
6
In the present study “high acute” consumers are respondents consuming 1 litre or more of ED per single session
in the case of adults and 1,065 litres or more of ED per single session in the case of adolescents (identified in
relation with declared volume consumed in a single session and setting the threshold at the 90 th percentile).
2
The present document has been produced and adopted by the bodies identified above as author(s). This task has been carried out exclusively
by the author(s) in the context of a contract between the European Food Safety Authority and the author(s), awarded following a tender
procedure. The present document is published complying with the transparency principle to which the Authority is subject. It may not be
considered as an output adopted by the Authority. The European food Safety Authority reserves its rights, view and position as regards the
issues addressed and the conclusions reached in the present document, without prejudice to the rights of the authors.

drinks

SUMMARY
At the end of 2011, a study was commissioned by EFSA to the Consortium Nomisma-Areté, with the
objective of gathering consumption data for “energy” drinks (ED) in specific consumer groups (adults,
adolescents and children) in EU). The study also aims at estimating, for the different consumer groups,
the exposure to specific active ingredients (caffeine, taurine, and D-glucurono-y-lactone) from ED
consumption, and the relative contribution of ED to the total caffeine exposure. Moreover, specific
consumption habits (co-consumption with alcohol and consumption associated to intense physical
exercise) should be analysed for adolescents and adults.
Between February and November 2012, the study team conducted an EU-wide questionnaire-based
survey - involving more than 52.000 participants from 16 different EU Member States7(MS) - among
adults (14.500 participants), adolescents (32.000), and children (5.500).
Survey results
Adults
Around 30% of adults interviewed declared to have consumed ED at least once during the last year,
with prevalence varying among MS from 14% in Cyprus to 50% in Austria, and mainly (53%) in
“young adults” (18-29 years). Among ED consumers, the average volume consumed was 2 L/month.
Approximately 12% of adult consumers were identified as “high chronic” consumers, i.e. consuming
ED 4-5 times/week or more (13,3% in “young adult” consumers), consuming an average volume of
4,5 L/month.
“High acute” consumers (consuming at least 1 L/single session), were 11% of the total adult ED
consumers, mainly in “young adults” (13,4%).
The co-consumption of ED and alcohol was evidenced for around 56% of adult ED consumers (71%
in “young adults”). ED consumption in relation with physical exercise resulted for 52% of adult ED
consumers, mainly (55%) in “old adults” (50-65 years).
The average exposure to caffeine from ED was 22,4 mg/day (0,32 mg/kg b.w.8/day) for adult ED
consumers, and the ED contribution to the total caffeine exposure was 8%. Caffeine exposure from
ED increased to 48,3 mg/day (0,7 mg/kg b.w./day) in high chronic consumers, with a ED relative
contribution of approximately 13%.
Average exposure to taurine from ED was 271,9 mg/day (3,82 mg/kg b.w./day) in adult ED
consumers, rising to 585,79 mg/day (8,49 mg/kg b.w./day) in high chronic consumers. Average
exposure to D-glucurono-y-lactone from ED was 125,95 mg/day (1,78 mg/kg b.w./day) on average for
ED consumers, up to 268,84 mg/day (3,91 mg/kg b.w./day) in high chronic consumers.

7

Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Germany, Greece, Finland, France, Hungary, Italy, Poland,
Romania, Spain, Sweden, The Netherlands, United Kingdom.
8
Data on the exposure expressed for kg of body weight (b.w.) were calculated for each consumer on the basis of
declared body weight collected through the survey. In case of missing data, data on body weight from EFSA
scientific opinion “Guidance on selected default values to be used by the EFSA Scientific Committee, Scientific
Panels and Units in the absence of actual measured data” (EFSA, 2012) were adopted.
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Adolescents
Prevalence of ED consumption was 68%, varying from 48% in Greece to 82% in Czech Republic9,
and mainly observed (73%) in the 15-18 age subgroup. Among ED consumers, the average volume
consumed was 2,1 L/month.
Around 12% of adolescent consumers were identified as “high chronic” consumers, i.e. consuming ED
4-5 times/ week or more, with an average ED volume of 7 L/month.
Around 12% of adolescent ED consumers resulted to be “high acute” consumers, i.e. consuming at
least 1,065 L of ED per single session.
Co-consumption of ED and alcohol was observed in 53% of adolescent ED consumers, mainly (59%)
in the 15-18 years subgroup, while ED consumption in relation with physical exercise resulted to
interest 41% of adolescent consumers, mainly (48%) in the 10-14 years subgroup.
The average exposure to caffeine from ED was 23,5 mg/day (0,38 mg/kg b.w./day) for adolescent ED
consumers, with an average contribution of ED to the total caffeine exposure of 13%. The caffeine
exposure from ED increased to 75,08 mg/day (1,18 mg/kg b.w./day) in high chronic consumers,
contributing to 16% of total caffeine exposure.
The average exposure to taurine from ED was 283,9 mg/day (4,6 mg/kg b.w./day) in adolescent ED
consumers, rising up to 924,3 mg/day (14,5 mg/kg b.w./day) in high chronic consumers. Average
exposure to D-glucurono-y-lactone from ED was 100,14 mg/day (1,65 mg/kg b.w./day), up to 311,6
mg/day (4,9 mg/kg b.w./day) in high chronic consumers.
Children
Prevalence of ED consumption was 18%, mainly (19%) observed in the 6-10 years subgroup, and
varying among MS from 6% in Hungary to 40% in in Czech Republic. Among ED consumers, the
average volume consumed was 0,49 L/week.
Approximately 16% of ED consumers resulted to be “high chronic” consumers, i.e. consuming ED 4-5
times/ week or more, with an average volume of around 0,95 L /week.
Average caffeine exposure from ED was 21,97 mg/day (1 mg/kg b.w./day), with a relative
contribution of ED to total caffeine exposure of 43%. Caffeine exposure from ED increased to 42,9
mg/day (1,98 mg/kg b.w./day) in high chronic consumers, with a ED relative contribution of 48%.
Average exposure to taurine from ED was 278,37 mg/day (12,83 mg/kg b.w./day), increasing to
543,57 mg/day (25,05 mg/kg b.w./day) in the high chronic consumers.
Finally, average exposure to D-glucurono-y-lactone from ED was 111,35 mg/day (5,13 mg/kg
b.w./day), increasing to 217,43 mg/day (10 mg/kg b.w./day) for high chronic consumers.
Literature review
Results emerging from the literature review highlighted a limited availability of recent and
comprehensive studies or surveys at EU level, providing reliable data on ED consumption and
exposure to specific ingredients (caffeine, taurine, and D-glucurono-y-lactone). Such limitation did not
allow an analysis of the evolution of ED consumption over time.

9

The highest prevalence of ED consumption among total respondents was observed in Belgium (85%) but not
reported due to the small dimension of the sample for this MS (sampling error of estimates exceeds 5%).
4

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Recommendations
The project represented the first effort at European level of data collection on ED consumption and
contribution to some active ingredients (caffeine, taurine, and D-glucurono-y-lactone) exposure, in
specific consumer groups and in different MS. Due to the exponential growth rate which characterised
the ED market over the last years, the study team suggests to monitor possible further increases in ED
consumption and eventually consider the possibility to update the study.


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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Abstract .................................................................................................................................................... 2
Summary .................................................................................................................................................. 3
Table of contents ...................................................................................................................................... 6
Background .............................................................................................................................................. 8
Terms of reference.................................................................................................................................. 13
1. Introduction and Objectives ........................................................................................................... 14
2. Materials and Methods .................................................................................................................. 15
2.1.
Literature review ................................................................................................................... 15
2.2.
Stakeholders’ consultation .................................................................................................... 16
2.2.1. Pre-survey and post-survey consultations ........................................................................ 17
2.3.
Survey ................................................................................................................................... 18
2.3.1. Selection of MS involved in the survey ............................................................................ 19
2.3.2. Study design ..................................................................................................................... 19
2.3.3. Pilot study and quality checks .......................................................................................... 23
2.3.4. Data processing methods for calculating the exposure to active ingredients ................... 25
2.3.4.1. Caffeine exposure from ED consumption................................................................ 25
2.3.4.2. Caffeine exposure from consumption of other food products and beverages .......... 29
2.3.4.3. Contribution of ED to total caffeine exposure ......................................................... 31
2.3.4.4. Contribution of ED to total exposure to taurine and D-glucurono-y-lactone .......... 31
2.3.5. Criteria for defining patterns of ED consumption (acute and chronic consumers) .......... 32
2.3.6. Problems encountered, related solutions and limitations of the study .............................. 34
3. Results ........................................................................................................................................... 40
3.1.
Literature review ................................................................................................................... 40
3.1.1. Overview .......................................................................................................................... 40
3.1.2. Focus on the most relevant references .............................................................................. 41
3.2.
Stakeholders consultation: emerging issues .......................................................................... 44
3.2.1. Literature and sources ....................................................................................................... 45
3.2.2. ED market ......................................................................................................................... 45
3.2.3. Active ingredients ............................................................................................................. 45
3.3.
Survey: results....................................................................................................................... 46
3.3.1. General overview.............................................................................................................. 46
3.3.2. Adults ............................................................................................................................... 48
3.3.2.1. ED consumption ...................................................................................................... 48
3.3.2.2. Co-consumption of ED and alcohol ......................................................................... 57
3.3.2.3. Consumption of ED during sport activities.............................................................. 61
3.3.2.4. ED contribution to total exposure to relevant substances ........................................ 65
3.3.2.5. ED acute consumption: analysis on high acute consumers...................................... 77
3.3.2.6. Exposure to active ingredients in high acute adult consumers ................................ 81
3.3.3. Adolescents....................................................................................................................... 90
3.3.3.1. ED consumption ...................................................................................................... 90
3.3.3.2. Co-consumption of ED with alcohol ....................................................................... 99
3.3.3.3. Consumption of ED during sport activities............................................................ 104
3.3.3.4. ED contribution to total exposure to relevant substances ...................................... 109
3.3.3.5. ED acute consumption: analysis on high acute consumers.................................... 124
3.3.3.6. Exposure to active ingredients in high acute adolescent consumers...................... 127
3.3.4. Children .......................................................................................................................... 136
3.3.4.1. ED consumption .................................................................................................... 136
3.3.4.2. ED contribution to total exposure to relevant substances ...................................... 143
4. Conclusions and recommendations ............................................................................................. 152
4.1.
Literature review ................................................................................................................. 152

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4.2.
Results emerging from the survey ...................................................................................... 153
4.3.
Recommendations ............................................................................................................... 157
References ............................................................................................................................................ 158
Appendices ........................................................................................................................................... 161
A. Appendix - Stakeholders consultation: complete list of contacts ................................................ 162
B. Appendix - Stakeholders consultation: list of questions.............................................................. 165
C. Appendix - Stakeholders consultation: reference documents for the interview .......................... 167
D. Appendix - Stakeholders consultation: main findings ................................................................. 173
E. Appendix - Content of relevant substances in different ed brands indicated as "other" by
respondents in the questionnaire .......................................................................................................... 181
F. Appendix - Details on caffeine content for the categories of food selected for the calculation of
exposure ............................................................................................................................................... 187
Glossary and abbreviations .................................................................................................................. 190


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BACKGROUND
Consumption of ED and related issues
“Energy” drinks (ED) constitute a relatively new product category in the wider soft drinks market.
Lipvitan D™, launched in Japan in 1960 by Taisho Pharmaceuticals, can be considered the first ED
ever. The diffusion of ED in Europe started in 1987 with the launch of Red Bull™, a beverage
containing taurine and produced in Austria, which quickly gained popularity in Europe and, from 1997
onwards, also in the USA. Commercial success of Red Bull™ sparked the proliferation of similar
products on the market.
With an agreed definition of “ED” still missing, such category includes a variety of non-alcoholic
beverages containing caffeine, taurine and vitamins (often in combination with other ingredients),
marketed for their actual or perceived effects as stimulants, energizers and performance enhancers. For
this reason, ED – which should not be confused with isotonic beverages and “sport drinks” – are usually
included in the wider group of “functional foods”.
The most common active substance in ED is caffeine, which is often combined also with taurine, Dglucurono-y-lactone, guaranà, maltodextrin, ginseng, carnitine, creatine and gingko biloba; other
common ingredients are vitamins and - usually – artificial and natural sweeteners (which are added also
to “mask” the unpleasant flavour of some ingredients).
Caffeine is an alkaloid, acting as central nervous system stimulant. It is present in many beverages and
food products: its content in ED can vary from 70 to 400 mg/L and more (maximum limits concerning
caffeine content are set by regulations in many countries).
Taurine is an amino acid naturally produced by human body, and it is essential for cardiovascular
function, and development and function of skeletal muscle, the retina and the central nervous system
D-glucurono-y-lactone is naturally present in human body, as important structural component of
connective tissues.
The rapid expansion of ED consumption has been one of the most notable trends in the soft drinks
market of many countries (see next §). However, such expansion has also created concern in the
scientific community, in national and international institutions dealing with health-related issues, as well
as in the public opinion, in the light of a number of issues which are often associated to ED
consumption. Indeed in the last years the attention for such issues has been remarkable in scientific
literature, in institutional communication by national health agencies, in specialist publications focusing
on the soft drinks sector10, and also in the general media.
The issue of ED consumption and over-consumption is highly debated from a scientific point of view,
especially for what the possible related health effects are concerned. Indeed a number of studies (Alford
et al., 2011; Reissig et al., 2009; SHC, 2012; Arria et al., 2011; Marin Institute, 2011; Oteri et al., 2007)
have recently investigated on potential and/or detected effects of “active” ingredients (caffeine,
taurine, D-glucurono-y-lactone, etc.) on highly sensitive subjects (children, pregnant women, heart
patients, etc.), or on potential and/or detected effects of co-consuming of ED with alcohol or with
other products containing active ingredients.

10

A recent example is the article “ANSES warns French nation of risky alcohol energy drink mix”, featured on
Beverage Daily.com website on June 07, 2012: http://www.beveragedaily.com/Regulation-Safety/ANSES-warnsFrench-nation-of-risky-alcohol-energy-drink-mix
8
The present document has been produced and adopted by the bodies identified above as author(s). This task has been carried out exclusively by
the author(s) in the context of a contract between the European Food Safety Authority and the author(s), awarded following a tender procedure.
The present document is published complying with the transparency principle to which the Authority is subject. It may not be considered as an
output adopted by the Authority. The European food Safety Authority reserves its rights, view and position as regards the issues addressed and
the conclusions reached in the present document, without prejudice to the rights of the authors.

drinks

Moreover, the issue of co-consumption of ED with alcohol is cause of particular concern, as it appears
to be quite common among youths (Marin Institute, 2007; Miller, 2008; SHC, 2009). Indeed health
effects of co-consumption of alcohol and ED have been dealt with by a number of scientific studies
(Arria et al., 2010; Alford et al. 2011; Brache and Stockwell, 2011; Oteri et al., 2007) and technical
reports (BfR, 2008; EUCAM, 2008, 2009).
Finally, also the association between sport practice and high levels of consumption of ED has raised
some concern, as the combined effect of intense physical effort and of the stimulant action of ED could
pose health risks for some subjects.
In 2003 the Scientific Committee on Food of the European Commission (DG SANCO)11 classified ED
consumption levels into “mean chronic”, “high chronic” and “acute” (table 1).
Table 1 – ED consumption levels
Consumption

N° of 250 ml cans per day

ml/day

Mean chronic
High chronic
Acute

0,5
1,4
3,0

125
350
750

Source: DG SANCO - Scientific Committee on Food (2003)

Increasing consumption of ED implies a higher exposure to caffeine, taurine and D-glucurono-ylactone. Higher exposure to such active substances by children and young adults was identified as a
potential emerging risk at European Food Safety Authority’s (EFSA) Advisory Forum meeting of 19th20th May 2010. Indeed available information suggests that ED consumption is becoming more and
more widespread among youths, especially in relation with mass-entertainment and sport practice.
Despite the high scientific interest related to the possible side effects of ED, the limited availability of
detailed and updated information on ED consumption in the EU has been highlighted by many
experts and stakeholders.
EFSA commissioned the present study to gather consumption data for ED and data on exposure to
specific ingredients (caffeine, D-glucurono-y-lactone, taurine) in the context of ED consumption, for
specific consumer groups (children, adolescents and adults) and addressing specific moments of
consumption. The study is also aimed at estimating the relative contribution of ED to the total
exposure to caffeine, D-glucurono-y-lactone and taurine in the diet (in comparison with the
exposure deriving from consumption of coffee, tea, cola drinks and cacao, chocolate products, coffeebased beverages, etc.).
The market of ED in Europe
In the context of the overall market for non-alcoholic beverages, ED are usually considered as a
segment of the wider category of “functional beverages”.
According to Zenith International’s Global Energy Drinks Report (2009), world total consumption of
ED in 2008 reached 3,9 billion litres (compared to 2 billion litres in 2003). Per capita consumption at
world level was equal to 0,8 litres (up from 0,4 litres in 2003). North America accounted for a 37%
share of overall world consumption in 2008, with the Asia/Pacific area accounting for another 30%; the
share of Western Europe on world total was equal to 15%.
According to estimates by Euromonitor International, the expansion of the ED market at global level
has continued at a fast pace also in recent years (table 2).
11

European Commission health & consumer protection directorate-general Scientific Committee on Food,
“Opinion of the Scientific Committee on Food on Additional information on “energy” drinks”, 2003.
9

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Table 2 – Growth of the functional drinks market at world level by segment (2006 – 2011; million litres)
% growth
Segments
2006
2011 (forecast)
(2011 vs. 2006)
Sports drinks

9.871

13.302

+ 35%

Energy drinks

2.429

3.534

+ 45%

Functional drinks TOTAL

12.621

17.202

+ 36%

Source: Euromonitor

On the basis of data provided by the Canadean’s Global Beverage Report (2008), the annual growth rate
for the ED segment in the 2008-2013 period was forecast at +9,3%, compared to a growth rate of +2,6%
for the overall non-alcoholic beverages market.
Red Bull™ is by far the leading brand at world level (40% of total sales in 2008), with Monster™
(owned by Hansen’s Beverage Company) and Rockstar™ ranked second and third, respectively (table
3).
Table 3 – Leading ED brands at world level (2008, market shares)
Brands

share

Red Bull™

40%

Monster™

23%

Rockstar™

12,3%

AMP™

8%

Full Throttle™

4%

Doubleshot™

2%

NOS™

1,5%

No Fear™

1,4%

Private Labels (retailers’ brands)
SOBE Adrenaline™

1%
0,7%

Source: Bevnet

With regards to the ED market in Europe, it has experienced a rapid growth of consumption,
especially from 2005 onwards (Zenith International, 2008). Total production of ED in Europe was
estimated at around 490 million litres in 2007, for a value of approximately 3,8 billion Euros. The
expansion of the market has been especially remarkable in some MS (Germany and United Kingdom in
particular12), and has often resulted in a proliferation of brands, with frequent launch of new
products, many of them with eminently national diffusion. “Convenience” ED (many of them
marketed under private label) and innovative product typologies (“energy shots”, “pre-mixed alcoholic
12

According to Zenith International data featured in the annual reports of the British Soft Drinks Association
(BSDA), ED consumption in the United Kingdom has grown from 175 million litres in 2000 (1,5% of total soft
drinks consumption) to 495 million litres in 2011 (3,4% of total soft drinks consumption, for an increase of 183%
in terms of volume). Per capita consumption levels have increased from 3 litres per person in 2000 to 7,9 litres per
person in 2011. In other MS the growth has been less intense, and overall consumption volumes are quite limited;
in Italy, for instance, consumption of ED (according to GFK-Eurisko data published on MARK UP magazine,
April 2009 and April 2010 issues) has passed from 2,67 million litres in 2006 to 2,97 million litres in 2009 (an
increase of 11%).
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ED”, etc.) have also appeared in some national markets (Alard, Marìn, Cubillo, 2010; EUCAM, 2008
and 2009).
Red Bull™ is by far the leading brand in virtually all national markets; smaller market shares are held
by other international brands (Monster™, Burn™), by national brands (of which some are however
owned by multinational groups) and by private labels.
Outline of the relevant EU labeling legislation
A short overview of the most relevant European legislation on food labelling - with particular attention
to the rules concerning beverages containing active ingredients – is provided hereafter.
Directive 2000/13/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council on “the approximation of
the laws of the MS relating to the labelling, presentation and advertising of foodstuffs”. The
Directive defines mandatory food information to be provided by producers, in order to assure a
high level of protection of consumers’ health and interests. According to this Directive, among
the other features (such as the name of the food) it is mandatory to indicate the list of
ingredients and the quantity of certain ingredients, or category of ingredients, on the product
label.
Directive 2002/67/EC of the European Commission on “the labelling of foodstuffs containing
quinine, and of foodstuffs containing caffeine”. The Directive establishes that beverages
containing more than 150 mg of caffeine per litre must be labelled with the term “high caffeine
content”, in a position close to the name of the food. Furthermore a clear indication of the
amount of caffeine per 100 ml in the product must be provided in the label. In this Directive ED
are explicitly indicated as caffeine containing products which, according to the Scientific
Committee for Food opinion of 21st January 1999, do not represent a cause of concern for their
contribution to the total consumption of caffeine (only for adults, pregnant women excluded).
Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 of the European Parliament and of the Council on “the
provision of food information to consumers”. From 14th December 2014 this Regulation will
enforce additional caffeine labelling for high caffeine drinks and foods where caffeine is added
for its physiological effects13. In particular, the following categories of beverages must be
labelled with the statement “High caffeine content. Not recommended for children or pregnant
or breast-feeding women” placed near the name of the product and followed by the caffeine
content specified in mg per 100 ml:
-

beverages intended for consumption without modification, containing at least 150 mg/l of
caffeine;

-

beverages in concentrated or dried form which after reconstitution contain caffeine in a
proportion in excess of 150 mg/l.

The aforementioned provisions will instead not apply for:
-

drinks based on coffee, tea or coffee or tea extract where the name of the food includes the
term “coffee” or “tea”;

13

http://www.food.gov.uk/policy-advice/additivesbranch/energydrinks

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-

beverages where caffeine is added as a flavouring rather than for a physiological purpose: in
this case the term “caffeine” must appear in the ingredients list under the section
“flavouring(s)”.

As for labelling on beverages containing taurine and D-glucurono-y-lactone, there are no specific rules
to be enforced to indicate these substances.


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TERMS OF REFERENCE
As already outlined, the main purpose of the study is gathering information and data on consumption of
ED and of some specific ingredients (specifically caffeine, taurine and D-glucurono-y-lactone) in welldefined consumer groups in a number of EU MS. The targeted groups of consumers include children
(from 3 to 10 year old), adolescents (from 10 to 18), and adults (from 18 to 65); a focus is also foreseen
on adolescents and adults practising intense physical exercise and co-consuming ED with alcohol.
According to the terms of reference, in the context of the study:
Consumption of ED is analysed at MS level and expressed per subgroup and per unit of time, in
order to reflect acute and chronic exposure.
Consumption of and exposure to specific ingredients (caffeine, taurine, D-glucurono-y-lactone) are
analysed per subgroup for acute and chronic ED consumers in each MS. As for caffeine
consumption, the relative contribution of ED is determined and compared with caffeine
consumption from major sources in the diet (coffee, tea, cola drinks and cacao, chocolate products,
coffee based beverages, etc) to assess whether ED consumption is adding to exposure to caffeine or
whether their consumption is substituting exposure via more traditional foods.

This contract was awarded by EFSA to: Consortium Nomisma-Areté
Contractor: Consortium Nomisma-Areté
Contract title: Gathering consumption data on specific consumer groups of energy drinks
Contract number: CFT/EFSA/EMRISK/2011/03


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1.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

According to the terms of reference, the main objectives of the study can be identified in the following:
-

Gathering data about consumption of ED in the EU MS (Objective 1);

-

Collecting data at MS level about the exposure to specific active ingredients (caffeine, taurine,
D-glucurono-y-lactone) due to ED consumption, and estimating the relative contribution of ED
to caffeine exposure, compared with caffeine consumption from major sources in the diet
(Objective 2).

In order to achieve the above mentioned objectives, a specific data collection strategy was defined,
based on three main elements:
1. review of the relevant literature dealing with the subjects of interest available in the different
MS and published over the last three years;
2. consultation of the relevant stakeholders (experts of EFSA national focal points; officials of
competent authorities in the field of public health; representatives of the main beverages
industry associations both at European and national levels);
3. ad hoc survey, aimed at gathering primary data on the consumption of ED and on the exposure
to specific ingredients.
The present document constitutes the final report for the study “Gathering consumption data on specific
consumer groups of energy drinks”, commissioned by EFSA to the Consortium Nomisma-Areté at the
end of 2011.
According to the tender specifications for the study, and taking into account EFSA’s guidelines for the
submission of official reports, the document is structured as follows:
-

A description of the methodology applied in the study (chapter 2);

-

A description of the results of the study (chapter 3), divided into:
o
o

A description of the results from the stakeholders’ consultation (§ 3.2);

o

-

A description of the results from the literature review (§ 3.1);
Final results from the survey (§ 3.3), as a summary of data on acute and chronic
consumption of ED in the previously mentioned subgroups of the population, including
summary statistics for each Member State (MS) and for all MS for which data were
available.

Conclusions and recommendations (chapter 4).


14


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2.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Due to the complexity of the study and the kind of information required for the purpose of the analysis,
a specific data collection strategy was defined, including a combination of different methods and tools
(Figure 1).
Figure 1: Data collection strategy

As foreseen in the data collection strategy, the preliminary phase of the study included:
-

Literature review, carried out also with the support and contribution of selected stakeholders.

-

Identification and contact of stakeholders, aimed at ensuring their contribute to the study via
interviews (stakeholders’ consultation).

-

Survey.

The following paragraphs provide details regarding the methodology and tools adopted for each main
phase and specific element of the data collection strategy.

2.1.
Literature review
The literature review was performed with the main objectives of:
-

Identifying and collecting relevant studies, papers and articles, as well as previous surveys
performed during the last three years with respect to the consumption of ED, the occurrence of
specific ingredients and human exposure to active ingredients.

-

Identifying and collecting information and data useful to correctly define the survey design as
well as specific contents for the questionnaires.

Activities related to literature review were developed through the following main steps:

15


drinks

1. Identification of the available literature and information sources, in the light of the previously
defined objectives and scope of the study.
2. Analysis of the documents collected during step 1.
3. Synthesis of the most relevant documents.
4. Use of the relevant literature for the purposes of the study (survey design and contents of
questionnaires).
The first phase of the literature review was mainly based on web-based research (specialized magazines,
dedicated web-sites, institutional sources, etc.). After this preliminary phase, stakeholders’ consultation
played a relevant role in supporting the identification of additional sources and studies as well as the
selection of the proper and most relevant papers for the purposes of the study. Stakeholders were asked
to comment on the preliminary list of references and sources collected by the study team, and to
eventually add missing references or sources (§ 2.2).
Literature review was focused on recent bibliography (published between 2008 and 2011) addressing
ED and/or their specific ingredients, in terms of consumption habits and possible health effects caused
by these products/ingredients. Due to the specific objectives of the study, however, studies and reports
dealing exclusively with health effects of ED were deemed as falling outside the scope of the study
itself.
From the complete list of the relevant literature, resulting from the stakeholders’ consultation (Appendix
A), a number of references featuring meaningful insights about the research topics were selected (§
3.1.2).
Stakeholders’ consultation

2.2.

Two different rounds of stakeholders’ consultations were planned: before (pre-survey consultation) and
after the survey (post-survey consultation).
The main objectives of the pre-survey stakeholders’ consultation is summarised as follows:
a) Supporting literature review, and specifically the identification of relevant sources, studies and
surveys dealing with the issue of ED consumption over the last 3 years.
b) Supporting the collection of data on ED market.
c) Supporting and validating the identification of relevant ED brands for the different MS.
d) Supporting the identification, for each MS, of relevant food products in the diet contributing to
the exposure to active ingredients (caffeine, taurine, D-glucurono-y-lactone).
After the conclusion of the survey, stakeholders who had participated to the first round of consultation
were contacted again as part of the post-survey consultation, whose main objective was to share with
experts the structure of methodology adopted for the study as well as results emerging from the first
round of consultations.
On the basis of the aforementioned objectives, the categories of stakeholders involved in the pre- and
post-survey consultations include:
-

Experts from EFSA national focal points14.

14

Focal Points act as an interface between EFSA and the national food safety authorities, research institutes,
consumers and other stakeholders. The Focal Point network is made up of members from all 27 EU Member
States, Iceland and Norway, as well as observers from Switzerland and (potential) EU candidate countries.
16

drinks

-

Representatives of the main industry associations, both at European level (Union of European
Soft Drinks Associations; Energy Drinks Europe; etc.), and at MS level (national associations of
soft drinks producers).

-

Researchers and experts in soft drinks and ED, in particular project managers of relevant studies
on ED and related themes (e.g. University of Wien; European Centre for Monitoring Alcohol
Marketing – EUCAM, etc.).

-

Representatives of consumers’ organizations at EU level (e.g. European Consumers’
Organization – BEUC).

The pre-survey consultation was carried out between February and May 2012.
The post-survey consultation was carried out in November 2012, when the survey activities were
approaching completion.
2.2.1.

Pre-survey and post-survey consultations

Starting from the identification of the relevant categories of stakeholders to be involved, the study team
selected a list of experts in the study subjects, specifically including:
-

experts from MS national health institutes/organisations;

-

representatives of EU-level industry organisations;

-

representatives of national industry organisations;

-

other experts in the field of ED (academics, consultants, etc.), with special focus on ED
consumption and composition.

The final list of stakeholders to be contacted and the list of questions to be asked were validated by the
Steering Group prior to the start of the consultation. The final list of stakeholders also included ones
from MS not covered by the survey, for a total of 40 experts (Appendix B).
All the interviewed experts were provided in advance (Appendix C and D) with:
-

list of questions;

-

list of relevant literature collected by the study team;

-

list of relevant information sources identified by the study team;

-

list of the main ED brands marketed in the EU, compiled by the study team on the basis of the
literature review;

-

list of food products in the diet (other than ED) supposed to play a significant role in the
assumption of caffeine, taurine, D-glucurono-y-lactone, theophylline and theobromine,
compiled by the study team on the basis of the information retrieved through the literature
review.

The minutes of the interview were sent to each interviewee for validation.
Interviews for the pre-survey consultation were organized around three main topics: literature and
sources; ED market; active ingredients. However, the choice of semi-structured interviews, based on
open-ended questions, encouraged experts not to limit their contributions to such topics, but to provide
also general comments on the study as a whole, as well as additional inputs and ideas.
Some stakeholders were also involved in the post-survey consultations, in which the structure of the
methodology adopted for the survey, as well as results emerging from the first round of consultations
were shared with them.

17


drinks

2.3.

Survey

The literature review and the pre-survey stakeholders’ consultation enabled the study team to better
define the reference frame for the survey, which actually represented the main source of data and
information for the study.
As already outlined, the survey aimed at collecting primary data on different population targets, and
specifically:
1) children (3-10 years old);
2) adolescents (10-18 years old);
3) adults (18-65 years old);
as well as:
a) adolescents and adults practising intense sport activities;
b) adolescents and adults consuming ED mixed with alcohol.
For each target group mentioned at points from 1 to 3 above, a dedicated questionnaire was prepared
and translated in all the languages of the MS covered by the survey. In the specific case of children aged
3-5 an additional questionnaire addressed to parents was also prepared.
The survey was structured to collect data and information to achieve both Objective 1 and 2 (chapter 1).
Questions related to each objective covered a specific section in the questionnaire. Each questionnaire
started with an introductive section aimed at gathering some preliminary information on the respondent
(gender, age, education level, etc.), followed by two dedicated sections, for each of the two objectives.
Additional consumer profile information (e.g. on lifestyle, such as “smoker or not”) was collected
through specific questions.
Objective 1: Data on ED consumption – Study design A. This section featured a number of questions
mainly aimed at investigating:
-

Frequency and volume of consumption.

-

Reasons for consumption and consumption habits.

-

Main typologies, size formats and brands consumed.

-

ED consumption and sport activities (in adults and adolescents).

-

Co-consumption of ED and alcohol (in adults and adolescents).

Objective 2: Data on consumption of other food products containing caffeine, taurine, D-glucurono-ylactone – Study design B. This section featured a number of questions mainly aimed at investigating:
-

Relevant food products in the diet that constitute a source of caffeine, taurine and D-glucuronoy-lactone.

-

Consumption frequency and products content in caffeine, taurine and D-glucurono-y-lactone.


18


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2.3.1.

Selection of MS involved in the survey

The survey covered 16 MS out of 27, selected in order to guarantee an adequate coverage of the whole
EU population and of the different consumption styles.
The following selection criteria were adopted:
-

Size of ED potential market in terms of population in the relevant age group (from 3 to 65 years).

-

Balance among different geographical areas supposed to have potentially different consumption
habits (Western vs. Eastern countries, Northern vs. Southern countries).

-

Balance among different food consumption patterns (e.g. Mediterranean countries vs. Nordic
countries).

On the basis of these criteria (also taking into account preliminary findings emerging from the literature
review), and after final validation by the Steering Group, the following 16 MS were selected for the
survey:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.

2.3.2.

Austria
Belgium
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Germany
Greece
Finland
France

9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.

Hungary
Italy
Poland
Romania
Spain
Sweden
The Netherlands
United Kingdom

Study design

In order to guarantee a wide coverage of each targeted group, the survey was differently defined on the
basis of the target. A description of the survey structure and for each targeted group is provided below.
1. Children
A. Children 3-5 years old
Survey carried out with schools' support ("school survey").
Paper questionnaires, featuring images aimed at helping children to correctly
understand each question and call back to mind food products and beverages.
Questionnaires to be filled in by children, at school, with the help of their teachers.
Additional questionnaires to be filled in by parents, aimed at collecting more
accurate information on the children’s consumption habits and at
confirming/adjusting what declared by children in the respective questionnaire.
B. Children 6-10 years old
“School survey”.
Paper questionnaires, featuring images aimed at helping children to correctly
understand each question and call back to mind food products and beverages.
Questionnaires to be filled in by children, at school, with the help of their teachers.
For a small sample of children, questionnaires to be filled in also by parents
(specifically required for schools covering both the target groups).

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2. Adolescents
A. Adolescents 10-13 years old
Web questionnaires or alternatively paper questionnaires to be filled in by
students.
B. Adolescents 14-18 years old
Web questionnaires or alternatively paper questionnaires to be filled in by
students.
3.

Adults (18-65 years old)
Mixed mode survey – CAWI (Computer Assisted Web Interview) e CATI
(Computer Assisted Telephone Interview).
Maximum share of telephone interviews = 20%.

4. Adolescents and adults practising Intense Physical Exercise (IPE)
Covered through the questionnaires already addressed to adolescents and adults
(points 2 and 3 above).
Practice of sport and/or physical exercise at least twice a week.
Target covered by Adolescent and Adults Survey (points 2 and 3 above).
5. Adolescents and adults Co-Consuming ED with alcohol (CC)
Covered via questionnaires already addressed to adolescents and adults (points 2
and 3 above).
At least one situation of co-consuming during the last year.
Target covered by Adolescents and Adults Survey (points 2 and 3 above).

For children and adolescents, the sample of schools for MS was determined on the basis of each target
group (Tables 4 and 5). Official registries containing the complete list of schools, with related contact
details, were requested to the Ministries of Education and other competent Authorities of the MS
covered by the survey. On this basis, sampling activities were carried out on the complete lists of
schools for each level involved (pre-primary, primary, secondary).
For the survey on adults (18-65 years), a mixed mode was preferred, integrating CAWI and CATI
methods. The questionnaires (adults, adolescents, children and parents) were translated in all the
relevant languages for the MS covered by the survey, in order to promote people’s cooperation and
participation.


20


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Details on the minimum sample dimension defined for each country, in terms of schools to be
contacted, are provided in Table 4.


21


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Table 4: Sample design – Number of schools included in the sample by country

SCHOOL SAMPLE AND POTENTIAL CONTACTS

(20x3)(a)
Austria
Belgium
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Finland
France
Germany
Greece
Hungary
Italy
Netherlands
Poland
Romania
Spain
Sweden
United Kingdom

25
30
5
25
20
100
100
18
28
90
40
75
40
79
25
100
800

PRIMARY
SCHOOL

LOWER
SECONDARY

UPPER
SECONDARY

(20x5)(a)

PRE-SCHOOL

(25x3x2)(a)

(22x5x3)(a)

25
30
5
25
20
100
100
18
28
90
40
75
40
79
25
100
800

10
12
5
10
10
39
39
7
11
35
16
30
16
31
10
39
320

6
5
5
6
5
23
23
5
7
22
10
18
10
19
6
24
194

TOTAL
(a) Average number of pupils/students per class (class size) multiplied for the average number of school year levels.

The number of contacts with schools in each MS was defined by means of a specific sampling
methodology: the total number of potential contacts was distributed among the 16 MS according to the
total population; the numbers obtained were then adjusted in order to guarantee a minimum number of
contacts in the less compared to the more populous MS. The methodology adopted for the definition
of sample size is therefore proportional with adjustments.
The sample of schools to be contacted in each MS was defined by random sampling methodology,
aimed at guaranteeing nation-wide coverage and representativeness of the group of interviews in terms
of geographical areas for each target group.
During the survey activities, the initially planned number of schools to be contacted was significantly
increased, in order to guarantee a sufficient coverage also in those countries where the actual
participation rate resulted to be much lower than initially expected (50%).
The replacement procedure was based on the representativeness of the sample, including three more
schools from the same region, with similar characteristics (level of education, area, number of
students, etc.).
Even if the sample was built on these premises, the results cannot be deemed as fully matching the
scheme initially proposed, as the participation rate in the survey strongly depended on the schools’
availability.
Therefore, a more intense effort was driven towards replacements and recalls in the MS where the
number of potential ED consumers resulted to be lower.
Details regarding the expected number of “consumers” (consumption of ED at least once over the last
year) to be reached for each target category are reported in Table 5.


22


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Table 5: Sample design – Expected number of consumers to be reached through the survey

CONSUMERS(a)
3-10 years
old

10-18 years
old

19-65 years
old

of which:
IPE(b)

Austria
Belgium
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Finland
France
Germany
Greece
Hungary
Italy
Netherlands
Poland
Romania
Spain
Sweden
United Kingdom

200
240
40
200
160
800
800
144
224
720
320
600
320
632
200
800
6.400

270
280
60
280
250
1.100
1.100
200
310
1.000
450
820
450
860
270
1.100
8.800

180
150
50
150
150
450
450
150
150
430
150
350
190
400
150
450
4.000

TOTAL
(a) At least one intake over the last year.
(b) Samples for IPE and CC are referred to both adolescents and adults.

2.3.3.

CC(b)

72
60
20
60
60
180
180
60
60
172
60
140
76
160
60
180
1.600

72
60
20
60
60
180
180
60
60
172
60
140
76
160
60
180
1.600

Pilot study and quality checks

The tools used in the survey, including questionnaires, were validated following a specific procedure.
All the documents were drafted on the basis of the study team’s expertise in surveys on food
consumption habits, with particular respect to the target groups covered by the study.
Relevant literature in the dietary assessment methodology field has been reviewed in order to use upto-date methods to assess the consumption habits on a target population15. Moreover, a review of
empirical studies on consumption habits was also made16, in order to grasp the critical aspects of the
tools already used in other surveys and to avoid as much as possible bias in the outcomes of the
survey.
15

One of the reference papers used was “Dietary Assessment Methodology” F. E. Thompson, A. F. Subar,
National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, 2008.
16
Specific reference was made to Safefood (A review of health effect of stimulant drinks), Expochi (Dietary
exposure assessments for children in Europe), Food4You project (Healthy Lifestyle in Europe by Nutrition in
Adolescence, European food information council) and Catch kids club (survey on consumption habits in
youngsters). Edmunds, L.D. and Ziebland, S. (2002) Validation of a fruit and vegetable questionnaire for 7–9
year olds. Health Education Research 17: 211-20.


23


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Professional translators were used to translate documents into the relevant languages; the use of simple
wording and a close cooperation between the translators and the study team also ensured that all the
survey questions and annexed documents were easy to understand.
National experts the pre-survey consultations allowed to tailor the questionnaires to national
characteristics concerning the main ED brands and/or other common food products/beverages
containing caffeine.
Questionnaires for surveys in schools were tested through a pilot survey in 3 MS (Italy, France and
UK). A sample of schools for each level was contacted to complete the pilot questionnaires and to
gather comments/suggestions on the structure and wording. Also head teachers or educational experts
of some schools not involved in the pilot survey provided useful remarks and suggestions on the
survey approach and questionnaires. Comments and suggestions gathered during the pilot phase were
used for fine-tuning methodology and related tools prior starting the survey.
Checks on the documents were initially based on the content validity, which was already part of the
tender specifications and which was tested with the Steering Group.
The specificity validity was achieved through adjustment of the standard methodology for
investigating food consumption habits to the specific kind of product considered, i.e. ED: in particular,
the consumption time reference scale and the occasions of consumption were based on each specific
type of product.
Moreover, a validation of the sensitivity was achieved through three check questions regarding ED
consumption, to have further confirmation of the same and to avoid “non-consumers”. These check
questions also allowed the selection of subgroups of consumers in the population and the investigation
of their specific consumption habits.
The external validity was assured by the outcomes of the pilot survey and by the stakeholders’
consultations, with the aim of allowing generalization of the survey results to the entire reference
population.
As for qualitative checks on the filled in questionnaires, accuracy in compiling the questionnaire was
assured by the constrains foreseen in the online questionnaires (adults and adolescents), which enabled
to continue with the compilation only if all the previous questions had been answered, and blocked the
compilation in case of “unrealistic” answers regarding age, weight, slept hours, etc.
With specific reference to ED consumption, in all those cases where the respondent had indicated a
product which is not an ED (e.g. sport drink), the respondent was reclassified as non-ED consumer,
and all the answers concerning ED consumption and related habits were consequently excluded from
the analysis.
As far as outliers are concerned, in all those answers where a number specification was required (e.g.
“number of cans consumed in an average week”), a reclassification or elimination was always made
for clearly extreme - and hence probably unrealistic - figures (e.g. 100 cans/week). An additional
reclassification was made with specific regards to coffee consumption, in order to assure coherence in
the overall consumption of the three product typologies: specifically, when respondents declared to
consume more than 15 cups per day17 of beverages with coffee - combining declared consumption data
espresso, coffee (instant, ground, ice-coffee) and cappuccino - the number of cups consumed daily has
been reclassified as maximum 5 cup per day for each typology.

17

Over 15 cups of coffee per day have been considered an unrealistic consumption data.


24


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Finally, the validity of results was also guaranteed by the choice to carry out the survey over a quite
long time period (from March to November), thus avoiding - or at least sharply reducing - possible
distortions due to seasonal trends in consumption.
2.3.4.

Data processing methods for calculating the exposure to active ingredients

Processing methods used for calculating the exposure to active ingredients (caffeine, taurine and Dglucurono-y-lactone) for each subject interviewed (“row analysis” of the data) were applied to data on:
The exposure was derived:
1. ED consumption;
2. consumption of other food products and beverages containing the active substances object of
the analysis.
Such calculations were made for both ED consumers and all respondents18, and allowed to define the
relative contribution of ED consumption as a source of caffeine, taurine and D-glucurono-y-lactone
through the diet.
Throughout the analysis, calculations were always based on the data of the single respondent, while
average data were used solely to give the final outputs/elaborations or to define the threshold for
further breakdowns of the analysis (i.e. acute or chronic consumption). Final results on the exposure to
active substances were expressed in mg/day and in mg/kg bw/day.
2.3.4.1. Caffeine exposure from ED consumption
Calculation started from ED consumption data retrieved via survey. Data on number of cans of ED
consumed in an average month were combined with data on:
a. the size of cans usually consumed;
b. the top-three ED brands usually consumed;
c. the relative importance of the favourite ED brand among the top-three products;
d. caffeine content of the ED brands concerned (table 6 and 7);
in order to calculate the overall caffeine exposure from ED consumption, weighted according to the
relative importance of the top-three ED brands consumed (each respondent was asked to indicate the
three main ED brands consumed, in decreasing order of importance, and to specify the per cent share
of his/her favourite brand in his/her total ED consumption).
In the specific case of children, a different method had to be used, as no question about the top-three
ED brands was asked. In this case, the average content of caffeine – as well as concerning Dglucurono-y-lactone and taurine - of the first 3 brands of ED comprehensively indicated by children
has been used.
With regards to the format of ED, a specific analysis was performed for the “energy shots” format: in
this case, the occurrence of active substances results to be remarkably different (and normally higher)
from that of the “standard” EDs, and to sharply vary from one energy shot brand to another. Table 7
provides the contents of active ingredients for the energy shots brands cited by respondents and

18

The calculation of the total exposure (ED and other foods/beverages) is not available for all the respondents in
the target group of adults, since in this case respondents who declared not to consume ED were not asked
additional information on the consumption of other food and beverages containing active ingredients.


25


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analysed in the study. When the exact occurrence of active ingredients was not available or considered
not fully reliable, a standardized content of active substances was applied19 (§ 2.3.6).

19

The contents adopted for the calculations are: 1.345 mg/L for caffeine, 4.000 mg/L for taurine and 2.400 mg/L
for glucurono-y-lactone. The size is 63 ml.


26


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Table 6: Content of active ingredients in different ED brands included in the questionnaire (1)
Caffeine (mg/L)

Taurine (mg/L)

D-glucurono-y-lactone
(mg/L)

Atomic™

300

3700

2400

Bad Dog™

300

4000

Not present

Battery™

320

4000

Not present

Brand name

Big Energy Shock™
Blu™

322
300

Bomba™
Booster energy drink™

(a)

4000

(b)

Not present

b

Not present

4000

320

4000

Not present

300 (a)

4000 (b)

2400(b)

320

4000

Not present

Brava Italia™

(a)

Bullet™

300

Burn™
Carrefour™

320
300 (a)

4000
4000 (b)

2400
2400(b)

Chillo™

300 (a)

4000 (b)

2400(b)

Clever™

320

300

2400(b)

Control™

300 (a)

4000 (b)

2400(b)

Crazy horse™

150

28

Not present

Dark dog™

320

4000

Not present

Fireball™

320
300 (a)

4000
4000 (b)

2400
2400(b)

Flying horse™

300 (a)

4000 (b)

2400(b)

Full Throttle™

288

2420

Not present

Green go™

300

4000
4000 (b)

Not present

Effect™

Grizzly™

300

(a)

4000

(b)

4000

(b)

Not present

2400(b)

Hell™

320

KX (Tesco)™

300

4000

2400

Long Horn™

320

Not present
4000 (b)

Not present

Mad bat™

300

(a)

4000

(b)

Not present

2400(b)

Mixxed up™

300

Mad croc™

320

4000

240

Monster™

307

4000

Not present

MX Maximim™

300

Nalu™

(a)

320
(a)

4000

(b)

Not present

2400(b)
Not present
2400(b)

Natural Magic™

300

Power horse™
Premium XO™

320
300 (a)

4000
4000 (b)

Raw™

300 (a)

4000 (b)

Not present
2400(b)

Real Power™

300 (a)

4000 (b)

2400(b)

Red Bull™

320

4000

2400

Red Devil™

300

4000

Not present

Relentless™

320

4000

2400


4000

(b)

Not present

2000

27


drinks

Caffeine (mg/L)

Taurine (mg/L)

(mg/L)

Rhino's™

120

4000 (b)

2400(b)

Rienergy Refresher™

303

4000

2400

Rockstar™

300

4000

Not present

Rodeo™

320

4000

2400

Semtex™

320

4000

Not present
2400(b)

Brand name

Sexy Italia™

(a)

300

4000

(b)

Shark™

350

4000

2400(b)

Tiger™

320

4000

Not present

Tonino Lamborghini™

320

4000

2400

V Power™

310
300 (a)

2000
4000 (b)

250
2400(b)

V12™

300 (a)

4000 (b)

2400(b)

320

Not present

Not present

V™

White Tiger™

28 Black Acai™
320
Not present
Not present
Note: values highlighted by the light grey background were assumed, as no information on actual content could be retrieved.
(a) assumed as equal to the value in König, 2011.
(b) assumed as equal to the modal value.
(1) Contents of relevant substances in different ED brands indicated as “other” by respondents in the questionnaire are
provided in Appendix F.

Table 7: Content of active ingredients in different energy shots brands
Brand name
Battery™

Caffeine (mg/L)
1345

(a)

Taurine (mg/L)
4000

b

(mg/L)
2400(b)

size (ml)
63 (a)

Burn energy shot™

1600

4000

1400

50

Dark Dog™ x10 Shot

1600

16000

Not present

63 (a)

Mad Croc energy shot™
Monster Hitman Energy
Shot™
Red Bull energy shot™
Relentless energy shot™
Rhino's energy shot™
Rockstar energy shot™

13300

(a)

4000

b

2400

(b)

60 (a)

880

2247

Not present

89

1333

6666

4000
2400(b)

60

1600

(a)

1345 (a)
1345 (a)

4000

b

4000 b
4000 b

50 (a)

2400

(b)

63 (a)

2400

(b)

63 (a)

Shark energy shot™

1070

4000

Not present

75

Tiger energy shot™

1333

16670

Not present

60

Note: values highlighted by the light grey background were assumed, as no validated information on actual content could be
retrieved.
(a) assumed as equal to the average of other energy shots indicated in the survey
(b) assumed as equal to the modal value of occurrence in standard ED


28


drinks

Calculation of the daily exposure to caffeine deriving from ED consumption was made through the
following formula:
ED_caffeine_daily exposure = (ED_monthly volume * ED_caffeine_content) / 30
where:
ED_caffeine_daily exposure = daily exposure to caffeine deriving from ED consumption (mg)
ED_monthly volume = volume of ED consumed in a month (l), calculated by combining the number
of cans consumed in an average month with the size of the cans
ED_caffeine_content = content of caffeine in ED (mg/l), weighted according to the brands consumed

2.3.4.2. Caffeine exposure from consumption of other food products and beverages
Caffeine exposure from consumption of other food products and beverages was calculated by
combining data:
a. on consumption frequency (daily or weekly, according to the type of product concerned);
b. on quantities consumed in a single occasion (taking into account container size or item weight,
whenever relevant);
c. on caffeine content of each product .
The parameters considered in the calculations are reported in table 7.


29


drinks

Table 8: Caffeine occurrence in other food products and beverages: relevant parameters considered in the
calculations
Container

Size

with caffeine
(mg/L or mg/kg)

decaffeinated
(mg/L or mg/kg)

Espresso Coffee

cup

0,03 l

1916

250

Coffee (instant, ground, ice coffee…)

mug

0,24 l

400

10,7

Cappuccino

cup

0,15 l

250

50

cup/glass

0,25 l

100

25

cup

0,25 l

150

Chocolate bars*

0,10 kg

180

Dark chocolate

0,10 kg

340

Milk chocolate

0,10 kg

183

White chocolate

0,10 kg

0

0,05 kg

140

Dark chocolate

0,05 kg

264

Milk chocolate

0,05 kg

142

White chocolate

0,05 kg

0

0,25 l

79,2

Type of product

Tea (instant, tea bag, ice tea…)
Hot chocolate

Chocolate snacks (e.g. Mars, KitKat

a

Colas (e.g. Coca Cola, Pepsi)

glass

0

(a) = whenever no distinction was made between dark, milk and white chocolate, values for generic chocolate products as
featured in König J.) were used for calculations.
Sources:
König J., 2011., Final report: Assessment of caffeine intake in a representative sample of the Austrian population
(age 14-39 years).
NZFSA - New Zealand Food Safety Authority (2010), Risk profile: caffeine in energy drinks and energy shots.
Report prepared by the Institute of Environmental Science and Research Limited (ESR).
Food Safety Promotion Board (2002), A review of the health effects of stimulant drinks – Final Report, Safe Food,
Cork, Ireland.
Web page on caffeine - University of Washington: http://faculty.washington.edu/chudler/caff.html
Websites of individual producers.


30


drinks

The general calculation method can be illustrated through an example referred to espresso coffee.
Total consumed volume in a week was calculated through the formula:
tot_espresso_week = number of cups per day * content of a cup (l) * weekly consumption frequency
Daily exposure was then calculated by applying the formula:
espresso_daily_exposure = (tot_espresso_week * caffeine content espresso mg/l) / 7
The above method was applied (mutatis mutandis) for the various types of coffee, tea and hot
chocolate. In the case of chocolate bars, chocolate snacks and colas, no questions about daily
consumption frequency were asked, as such products are not always consumed on a regular daily
basis20. Daily exposure for such products was hence calculated ex-post, through the formulas:
tot_product_week = (product content or size in l or kg * weekly consumption volume)
product_daily_exposure = (tot_product_week * product caffeine content mg/l or mg/kg) / 7
In these specific cases, consumption volumes of each item were associated to the respective content of
caffeine, and consumption frequency (already specified in the question – not in the answer) was
reclassified on a daily basis, thus obtaining the exposure to caffeine in mg/day for each specific
food/beverage for each respondent.

2.3.4.3. Contribution of ED to total caffeine exposure
Total daily caffeine exposure was calculated as the sum of both daily exposure from ED consumption
(§ 2.3.4.1) and daily exposure from consumption of all other food products and beverages (§ 2.3.4.2).
Daily exposure from ED consumption was then referred to the above total, to express ED contribution
to caffeine exposure as % of total daily exposure.
Forthe relative contribution of ED to the total exposure to active substances, the mean value presented
in this analysis is calculated as a ratio between the mean exposure to the ingredient (e.g. caffeine)
deriving from ED and the total exposure to the ingredient (e.g. caffeine), on the other.

2.3.4.4. Contribution of ED to total exposure to taurine and D-glucurono-y-lactone
The calculation of daily exposure to taurine and D-glucurono-y-lactone from ED consumption was
carried out by applying the same method used for calculating daily exposure of caffeine from ED
consumption for the three targets involved in the survey (§ 2.3.4.1).
On the contrary, lack of data on content of taurine and D-glucurono-y-lactone in specific food
products and beverages (except for limited “spot” information) did not allow to apply the analytical
method of calculation of daily exposure used for caffeine (§ 2.3.4.2). As a consequence, data on daily
exposure to taurine and D-glucurono-y-lactone from consumption of other food products and
beverages other than ED were not possible to be included in analysis for adolescents and children.

20

For these specific items a weekly frequency has been used, also taking into account indications from the relevant literature
references; the adoption of a week as the reference time frame also allowed to include in the analysis all respondents
consuming less frequently than once a day.


31


drinks

Concerning adults, this analysis was carried out based on consistent data, derived from EFSA’s
scientific opinion “The use of taurine and D-glucurono-γ-lactone as constituents of the so-called
“energy” drinks” (adopted on January 15, 2009).
More specifically, daily exposure from consumption of other food products and beverages other than
ED was assumed:
For taurine, equal to 58 mg (mean daily exposure to taurine from omnivore diets).
For D-glucurono-y-lactone, equal to 1,5 mg (estimated daily exposure from naturally
occurring sources in the diet).
The calculation of the contribution of ED to total exposure to taurine and D-glucurono-y-lactone was
carried out by:
1. summing daily exposure from ED consumption to daily exposure from consumption of other
food products and beverages, to obtain the total daily taurine and D-glucurono-y-lactone
exposure;
2. referring daily exposure from ED consumption to total daily exposure (point 1), to express ED
contribution to the exposure to taurine and D-glucurono-y-lactone as % of total daily
exposure.
As for caffeine, the relative contribution of ED to the total exposure to active substances, the mean
values presented in the analysis were calculated as a ratio between the mean exposure to the ingredient
deriving from ED and the total exposure to the ingredient for each subgroup considered in the
analysis.

2.3.5.

Criteria for defining patterns of ED consumption (acute and chronic consumers)

The identification of respondents that could be defined as “high acute” or “high chronic” ED
consumers was performed on the basis of the frequency distribution of the variables specifically linked
to volume and frequency of ED consumption respectively21. This means that consumption habits that
stand above or below the average were identified by using the upper decile of frequency distribution of
the correspondent variables as threshold value.
Specifically, “high acute” ED consumers were defined by making reference to the volume consumed
in a single session22. In particular, the calculation derives from the variable “liters of ED in a single
session”, that combines the number of cans consumed per single session with the size format indicated
by each respondent in the questionnaire. The threshold beyond which ED consumers were considered
“high acute” was set at the 90th percentile23 of frequency distribution for that variable (excluding
outliers24), corresponding to a consumption of 1 litre of ED per single session in the case of adults and
of 1,065 litres in the case of adolescents.

21

The methodology used to define acute and chronic consumers refers to the approach presented in the “Opinion
of the Scientific Committee on Food on Additional information on “energy” drinks”, European Commission
health & consumer protection Directorate-General, Scientific Committee on Food, 2003.
22
According to the present study, “single session” is a period of time of a couple of hours (e.g. a night out, a
study or sport session).
23
High acute consumers defined as ≥ 90th percentile.
24
99% of respondents who declared a consumption of more than 4 cans in a single session actually declared
completely unrealistic consumption volumes (e.g. 30-40 cans in a single session): for such reason, values
declared by these respondents were considered as outliers and were excluded from the analysis.


32


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