What does the new study of energy drinks say?

The harmful levels of hydrogen peroxide in some energy drinks can explain the risk trends of cancer in the age group that consumes them, a Monash University study has revealed, broadcast news.

Professor Louise Bennett, who conducted the study, says that hydrogen peroxide levels in several energy drinks were found to be 15 thousand times higher than the natural levels produced in the body.

hydrogen peroxide is the chemical present in the home bleacher and hair color. The body produces low levels of hydrogen peroxide, less than 20,000 mg/kg, as a signal molecule that can be activated by cell processes.

In many countries, allowed levels are lower to 0.5mg/kg. Researchers analyzed hydrogen peroxide levels in a range of commercial beverages and found that some chemical combinations of components can guide this chemistry.

Prof. Bennett hopes the search will lead to new standards to avoid producing hydrogen peroxide in these drinks.