The coffee-energy drink hybrids from Starbucks, Monster, and Rockstar all have too much caffeine for a minor. People under 18 are not supposed to have more than 100 mg caffeine per day [Ref: American Academy of Pediatrics]. For adults, the caffeine content in this drink is fine. Adults can have up to 400 mg caffeine per day. [Ref: EFSA]. Biochemically, caffeine does not affect the body differently when it comes from a natural source versus a synthetic source.
If you’re sensitive to caffeine, you should not consume this drink. If you regularly consume a Grande cup of plain black coffee (330 mg caffeine according to Caffeine Informer), then the caffeine content shouldn’t be a problem for you.
When it comes to the “dangers of energy drinks”, we have to be careful about what kind of exceptions we make for coffee beverages. When you think about it, caffeine is more dangerous than most, if not all, the food additives that get a bad reputation in today’s media. Nonetheless, most people don’t seem alarmed when someone has multiple cups (or a whole pot) of coffee. The assumption is the caffeine content is not dangerous since it’s coming from a natural source.
However, if you’re under 18 or sensitive to caffeine, too much caffeine is too much caffeine, regardless where it comes from.
As always, excellent information. 👍👍