US Senator Charles Schumer calls on FDA to regulate snortable chocolate
In a letter sent to the government body, Schumer wrote that Coco Loko is not made with pure chocolate, but concentrated energy drink ingredients marketed under the “innocence of natural and safe chocolate candy”.
Coco Loko is manufactured by Florida-based Legal Lean Company, and it is currently available on its website for about $20 per 1.25-ounce container.
We have asked legal Lean to comment but have not yet received a response.
Its website states Coco Loko is infused with “raw cocoa with a special energy blend,” and it can give its consumers increased energy, elevated mood and a sense of calm focus.
The senator said even though the FDA has a suggested amount of daily caffeine for an adult, caffeine’s effects on children and adolescents have not been thoroughly studied.
“Inhalable caffeine, specifically, has several implications for the health of its intended consumers,” he added.
FDA’s response
The FDA confirmed it has received Sen. Schumer’s letter, and said it will respond directly to his office. However, it is not prepared to issue a determination regarding whether and how Coco Loko is subject to its jurisdiction at this time.
“In reaching that decision, FDA will need to evaluate the product labeling, marketing information, and/or any other information pertaining to the product’s intended use,” the organization said.
