NEW YORK (NEWSnet/AP) — An energy drink that has earned viral popularity among children is facing scrutiny from lawmakers and health experts regarding potentially dangerous levels of caffeine.

On Sunday, Sen. Charles Schumer called on U.S. Food and Drug Administration to investigate PRIME, a beverage brand founded by the YouTube stars Logan Paul and KSI.

“One of the summer’s hottest status symbols for kids is not an outfit, or a toy—it’s a beverage,” Schumer said. “But buyer and parents beware because it’s a serious health concern for the kids it so feverishly targets."

PRIME was a sensation when it launched in 2022. Advertising itself as zero sugar and vegan, it is among a growing number of energy drinks with elevated levels of caffeine. In PRIME’s case, 200 milligrams per 12 ounces, equivalent to a half-dozen cans of Coca-Cola or two cans of Red Bull.

Some schools in the United Kingdom and Australia banned the beverage, which some pediatricians said pose possible health impact on young children, such as heart problems, anxiety and digestive disorder.

Company representatives have defended the product as clearly labeled “not recommended for children under 18.” They sell a separate sports drink, known as PRIME Hydration, which contains no caffeine. Representatives for PRIME did not immediately return a request for comment.

In Schumer’s letter to FDA, he claims there is little noticeable difference in the online marketing of the two beverages, leading some parents to believe they are purchasing a juice for their children, instead getting a “cauldron of caffeine.”

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