SB 7 would prohibit the sale of “pure caffeine” products sold in a powder, liquid or crystalline form

February 12, 2015 at 12:00a.m.

COLUMBUS

The Ohio Senate began deliberations Wednesday on legislation that would ban the sale of pure-caffeine products in the state.

SB 7 was offered by Sen. Gayle Maning, a Republican from North Ridgeville, after the death of a teen in her district after consuming a lethal dose of caffeine.

His “tragic death demands we act to prevent future accidental deaths due to this unregulated and highly toxic substance,” Manning told the Senate’s Criminal Justice Committee on Wednesday, where the bill had its initial hearing. “This legislation seeks to ensure pure caffeine powder does not fall into the wrong hands while preserving the current business functions” of licensed food and drink manufacturers and labs.

SB 7 would prohibit the sale of “pure caffeine” products sold in a powder, liquid or crystalline form.

Those caught selling the products would face misdemeanor criminal charges.

The bill includes exceptions for pills that contain up to 250 mg of caffeine or coffee, tea and other products that contain caffeine combined with other ingredients.

Manning said a single teaspoon of pure caffeine is equivalent to 25 cups of coffee.

“It is recommended that an individual does not take more than 600 mg per day,” she said. “Six hundred milligrams is equivalent to three-sixteenths of a teaspoon. Because caffeine is such a powerful stimulant, even the smallest amount can cause an accidental overdose.”