Panera to Discontinue Charged Sips Drinks Linked to 2 Deaths [California]
CALIFORNIA (May 23, 2024) — Panera announced Tuesday that it will stop selling its Charged Sips caffeinated beverages, which are at the center of multiple lawsuits.
The caffeine-laden lemonade drinks will be phased out nationwide as the company revamps its menu to offer “low-caffeine” drink options. As of Tuesday, the drinks were still available on Panera’s website.
This decision follows allegations that Charged Lemonade drinks caused two deaths. Sarah Katz, a 21-year-old college student with a heart condition, died in September 2022 after consuming a Charged Lemonade. Her family filed a lawsuit claiming the drink’s high caffeine content, which surpasses that of Red Bull and Monster Energy Drink combined, came with no warning.
Another lawsuit alleges that Dennis Brown of Fleming Island, Florida, died from cardiac arrest after consuming three Charged Sips, unknowingly ingesting high levels of caffeine. The beverages contain between 155 and 302 milligrams of caffeine and are labeled with a warning for children, caffeine-sensitive individuals, and pregnant or nursing women.
Panera has yet to comment on the pending litigation but stated its focus on offering a broad array of beverages, including new low-sugar and low-caffeine options like “Blueberry Lavender Lemonade.”
If you or a loved one has been harmed by Panera Charged Sips or by other defective or dangerous products, contact RTM Law Firm for a free consultation. Our personal injury attorneys can help you file a claim for compensation to cover medical bills and other damages. Waiting will only hurt your case. Call us today.
