Identification of energy drinks consumed by students from different universities in the metropolitan area of Barranquilla-Colombia

Abstract

Energy drink consumption has increased significantly among university students worldwide, who use them to improve their academic and physical performance, as well as to stay awake during long study sessions. This study sought to characterize energy drink consumption among students from different universities in the Barranquilla metropolitan area (n=170), and to quantify the caffeine content of the three most preferred brands: Vive 100, Speed Max, and Monster. The survey showed that approximately 35.3% of respondents consumed energy drinks, with the most common use being during study activities, followed by leisure activities, and, to a lesser extent, to quench thirst. Regarding caffeine content quantification, UV-Visible spectrophotometry was applied, finding that both Vive 100 and Speed Max presented levels below those declared on their labels and within the maximum limits allowed by Colombian Resolution 4150 of 2009 (32 mg/100 mL). However, Monster exceeded both the reported content on its label and the established limit. These findings highlight the need to strengthen labeling monitoring and accuracy, as well as the importance of educating the student community about the risks associated with excessive caffeine intake.