They’re the go-to drink for many people when they’re in need of a boost, but if you consume energy drinks, a new study may ring alarm bells.
Researchers from Monash University have warned that some energy drinks contain harmful levels of hydrogen peroxide - the chemical in bleach.
Worryingly, the researchers believe the findings could help explain changes in cancer risks.
Professor Louise Bennett, who led the study, said: “The research indicates that people are drinking diluted hydrogen peroxide when they consume some energy drinks.
“The long-term effects may explain some cancer-risk trends in the age group who consume energy drinks.”
According to the researchers, the hydrogen peroxide is used for sanitation, with residues of up to 5mg/kg allowed in food and drink products.
While this is the legal level in Australia, in many other countries, the permitted levels are much lower (0-0.5mg/kg).
Professor Bennett added: “This reflects that toxicity is not well understood, particularly for regular consumption of ~350ml such as in a commercial beverage.
“We have analysed the levels of hydrogen peroxide in a range of commercial beverages and found that some chemical combinations of ingredients in energy drinks can drive this chemistry.
“We are hoping that our research will lead to new standards for avoiding production of hydrogen peroxide in these types of popular beverages,” says Professor Bennett, adding that she is hoping to work with individual companies to manage this problem.
“Our current research is addressing how to avoid or degrade the hydrogen peroxide.”
