Red Bull

Guide Note

Red Bull is a berry-flavored energy drink. One can contains about the same amount of caffeine as six ounces of coffee.

The drink was developed in the early 1980s in Thailand, and gained popularity among truckers and farmers. Starting in 1987, marketing firm Blendax adapted the drink and distributed it in Austria. The beverage now sells over three billion cans worldwide every year.

Fast Facts

1. 2006: 3 billion cans sold
2. Invented by Chaleo Yoovidhya
3. Popularized throughout Europe by Dietrich Mateschitz
4. Distributed by Red Bull GmbH
5. Headquarters: Fuschl am See, Austria
6. Slogan: Red Bull Gives You Wings.

Several rumors have spread regarding the possible negative health effects of Red Bull. Though the drink is banned in Norway, Denmark and several other countries, rumors that the beverage can cause growth of brain tumors has been revealed to be unfounded.

Despite no direct evidence of the harmful effects of taurine or caffeine in small doses, Red Bull recommends not consuming more than two cans in a single sitting. It is also advised not to consume Red Bull mixed with alcohol, as the flavor can dilute the taste of vodka and other spirits and lead to an unsafe level of alcohol consumption.

1. Water
2. Glucose
3. Sucrose
4. Taurine
5. Caffeine
6. Sodium Citrates
7. Carbon Dioxide
8. Glucuronolactone
9. Inositol
10. Caramel