US: FDA is being asked to look into Logan Paul's energy drink, which has the caffeine of 6 Coke cans

An influencer-backed energy drink that has earned viral popularity among children is facing scrutiny from lawmakers and health experts over its potentially dangerous levels of caffeine.

On Sunday, Sen. Charles Schumer called on the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to investigate Prime, a beverage brand founded by the YouTube stars Logan Paul and KSI that has become something of an obsession among the influencers’ legions of young followers.

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

Backed by two of YouTube’s best known stars, Prime was an immediate sensation when it launched last year, prompting long lines in grocery stores and reports of school yard resale markets.

Advertising itself as zero sugar and vegan, the neon-coloured cans are among a growing number of energy drinks with elevated levels of caffeine; in Prime's case, 200 milligrams per 12 ounces, equivalent to about half a dozen Coke cans or nearly two Red Bulls.

That high content prompted bans from some schools in the United Kingdom and Australia where some paediatricians warned of possible health impacts on young children such as heart problems, anxiety, and digestive issues.

“A simple search on social media for Prime will generate an eye-popping amount of sponsored content, which is advertising," he wrote. “This content and the claims made should be investigated, along with the ingredients and the caffeine content in the Prime energy drink.”