Analysis Of Caffeine And Artificial Sweeteners As Active Ingredients In Popular Energy Drinks Available In Indian Market For Forensic Prospects

Abstract

Energy drinks (EDs) are beverages designed to boost energy, alertness, and concentration. They typically contain caffeine, sugar, vitamins, and other ingredients like taurine, ginseng, and B vitamins, though exact ingredient amounts are often undisclosed. These drinks are popular among people looking for a quick energy boost, especially in situations requiring extended periods of wakefulness or physical activity. However, they can have side effects, particularly when consumed in large quantities or mixed with other drinks. They are typically marketed to enhance physical or cognitive performance and promote weight loss by increasing energy expenditure, owing to the presence of active ingredients of these drinks. This study aimed to measure the concentrations of such active ingredients of energy drinks using HPLC and based on the analysis result, assess whether the product label claims stand true or not and whether the product complies with FSSAI standards. Samples from ten different ED brands were analyzed using HPLC for determining levels of active ingredients of EDs, i.e., caffeine and artificial sweeteners and explore its scope in forensic science. The study found significant discrepancies and non-compliance with standards across all brands with high prevalence, well above the recommended values in all the samples, suggesting potential health risks and highlighting consumer fraud from a forensic perspective.