Monster Changes Label to Qualify as “Drink”

Monster Beverage Corp. is changing the labeling on its cans so that its energy drinks will no longer be considered dietary supplements, a move that changes the federal guidelines the drinks must follow.

Monster's CEO told the industry tracker Beverage Digest that the cans will now list "Nutrition Facts" rather than "Supplement Facts," as well as disclosing caffeine content.

The change reflects the intensifying scrutiny energy drinks have come under over the past year, with lawmakers calling on the Food and Drug Administration to look into the safety of the caffeine and other ingredients contained in the drinks.

It also highlights the confusion consumers may encounter when it comes to the labeling of energy drinks, with companies having the discretion to categorize them as either dietary supplements or traditional drinks.

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