Bob Marley Drink Sold in NJ School Sickens Students, Raising Concerns

While the drink, marketed for relaxation, states in its nutritional facts that it is not intended for children, students were able to purchase it on campus. (Getty)

As energy drinks are continuously being targeted by the FDA for its potentially fatal side effects, another drink that supposedly causes relaxation is facing controversy.

Officials have removed a stress-reliever named after reggae icon Bob Marley after several students in New Jersey were sickened from the drink.

The Asbury Park Press in Southern Jersey is reporting Chartwells School Dining Services removed Marley’s Mellow Mood drinks and teas from Satz and Holmdel High School in New Jersey and said the product was not approved for sale at any of its schools. In addition, an on-site manager has also been removed.

“We sincerely regret that this product was sold and that students had an adverse reaction to it,” said a statement released by Chartwells on Monday. “Chartwells takes great pride and care in partnering with our school communities to provide the best school dining experience possible and we take this situation very seriously.

Marley’s Mellow Mood, promoted to reduce stress, states in its nutritional facts that it may cause drowsiness and is not intended for children. However, students at Satz Middle School and Holmdel High School could buy it on campus. Several middle school students were sickened on Friday. It’s unclear what the students’ symptoms were.

This announcement comes shortly after the FDA revealed it may seek outside help to explore the possible dangers of energy drinks. While Marley’s Mellow Mood is intended for relaxation and, according to its website, contains ingredients like valerian root, other drinks meant to jump-start energy has raised concerned among consumers.

Earlier in October, parents of a 14-year-old girl filed a wrongful death suit in Riverside, Calif. after their child drank two cans of Monster Energy Drinks in 24 hours. The girl’s family insisted Monster failed to warn consumers about the risks of drinking its products. While an autopsy concluded she died of cardiac arrhythmia due to caffeine toxicity, the medical examiner also found the girl had an inherited disorder that can weaken blood vessels.

The FDA is also currently investigating reports citing illnesses, hospitalizations and deaths that may have been caused after consuming a product marketed as 5-Hour Energy.

Agency officials said the reports do not necessarily prove the drinks cause deaths or injuries. However, they are investigating each one and cautioning consumers that such products should not replace rest. The drinks are currently found at convenience stores.

The school district is currently investigating the illnesses.

Based on reporting by the Associated Press.