Blumenthal
HARTFORD, Conn. - Saying it glamorizes drug use, Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal recently threatened the makers of the energy drink Cocaine.
Blumenthal sent a letter to Redux Beverages demanding the company stop selling the drink in Connecticut, or else face legal action.
"Naming this product 'Cocaine' is an insult to anyone seeking to deter and discourage illegal drug use," Blumenthal said. "As a parent, I was outraged to learn this drink is sold in stores across the state, particularly targeting high-crime inner city neighborhoods, contributing to an aura and mystique surrounding illegal drug use, especially for drug use."
In February, Blumenthal made another drink-related demand -- requesting a test for Enviga, green tea manufactured by Coca-Cola and Nestle that was advertised to burn calories while being drank.
Blumenthal has already tasted victory against a drink manufacturer, earning $219,000 in a settlement with the company that produces SoBe drinks. Blumenthal said the company was claiming the drink could prevent colds in its advertising.
Concerning Cocaine, Blumenthal said the Food and Drug Administration has notified Redux Beverages that the drink is illegally marketed as a street drug alternative and a dietary supplement.
Blumenthal told Redux that it has 10 day to notify his office that all sales of Cocaine have ended.
"Packaging and promoting a product with drug slang unconscionably makes drug use cool," Blumenthal said.
"I will continue to support a total ban on these types of gateway products as a valid public health measures."