FED:Alcoholic energy drinks given thumbs down

AAP General News (Australia)
04-12-2011
FED:Alcoholic energy drinks given thumbs down

CANBERRA, April 12 AAP - Three out of every four Australians believe mixing alcohol
with energy drinks isn't a good idea, and 59 per cent support a ban on buying pre-mixed
versions.

The Alcohol Education and Rehabilitation Foundation says its survey results proves
the need for greater scrutiny on the issue.

The foundation is funding a three-month independent study, where it will survey drinkers
at Melbourne pubs, clubs and nightspots as well as employees.

Chief executive Michael Thorn said there were numerous black marks against alcoholic
energy drinks, such as Jagerbombs.

They mask the feeling of intoxication, which leads to people drinking more and the
increased risk of violence.

Both alcohol and the high-caffeine energy drinks are also diuretics, which could cause
dehydration on a long night out.

"What the latest findings show is that a majority of Australians are seriously concerned
about the potential dangers of alcoholic energy drinks," he said in a statement on Tuesday.

"The community is clearly identifying this as an issue and in Western Australia, authorities
are taking an active and preventative approach to combating alcohol-related harms."

WA has banned the sale of drinks mixing alcohol and energy drinks across inner-Perth
after midnight, in what the industry says is an Australian first.

The foundation's online survey took in the responses of more than 1000 people of drinking
age across the country, with 75 per cent giving alcoholic energy drinks the thumbs-down.

Fifty-nine per cent said they supported a ban on pre-mix sales.

Key concerns with beverages such as Jagerbombs was that they increased the risk of
heart palpitations, while 53 per cent said it was too easy not to feel drunk.

The $20,000 study is due to be completed by August.

AAP cj/sb/dep

KEYWORD: DRINKS

� 2011 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.