WASHINGTON (July 24, 2025)--Caffeine pouches are the latest energy product to hit the market. According to an NBC News story the pouches are being marketed in a way that is attractive to teens, a trend that public health experts say is concerning.
The pouches, small bags put between the lips and gum, can contain more than 200 milligrams of caffeine, an amount that is about the same as that in two cups of coffee.
The pouches deliver the caffeine to the bloodstream quickly and the rapid delivery and high dose can cause increated heart rate, nausea, insomnia and other severe symptoms, according to Rob van Dam, a professor of exercise and nutrition sciences, at the George Washington University.
Children and teens are more susceptible to the risks and the potential for an overdose, he says. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting or avoiding this substance for this age group.
To schedule an interview with Rob van Dam, please contact Kathy Fackelmann, kfackelmann
gwu [dot] edu (kfackelmann[at]gwu[dot]edu).