So-called "energy shots" promise to keep you alert and lively, but some of the claims made by the most popular brand could be hard to swallow.
5-hour Energy's ads target busy parents and working adults, as well as young people on YouTube and Facebook, and the small shot bottles are on display at checkout counters almost everywhere.
The company says that people drink the product more than seven million times each week, and claims consumers will "feel it in minutes" and the effect "lasts for hours."
Consumer Reports wanted to know: Can 5-hour Energy kick your afternoon slump?
"The company showed us a summary of a study it conducted that supports its claims of increasing attention and alertness. But the study hasn't been published, and the company wouldn't let us keep a copy," the magazine's Jamie Hirsh said.
The energy shot contains B vitamins and 1,870 milligrams of what it calls an "energy blend" -- a long list of ingredients, including caffeine.
"While caffeine is a known stimulant, we found little if any published scientific research showing that the other ingredients in the ‘energy blend' provide such a boost," Hirsh said.
The company won't disclose exactly how much caffeine is in 5-hour Energy, but says it's comparable to a cup of "the leading premium coffee."
While the couple in the company's ad carries around a six-pack of energy shots, the label cautions consumers to consume less than two bottles a day, leaving several hours between each bottle. The product goes for a hefty price of more than $3 a shot.
"The bottom line is 5-Hour Energy will probably chase away grogginess. But so will a cup of coffee, and it costs a lot less," Hirsh said.
If you do want to try 5-hour Energy, be aware that it isn't for everyone. The label cautions that pregnant and nursing women shouldn't try it, nor should children younger than 12.
With a report from CTV British Columbia's Chris Olsen
