By Associated Press
Frankfort, KY – A statement from the Public Protection Cabinet on Monday says the action by the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control was sparked by a warning the Federal Drug Administration issued last week. The agency sent letters to four manufacturers calling the caffeine added to the beverages an "unsafe food additive."
The companies have 15 days to respond to the letters and either explain how they will take their products off the market or defend their drinks as safe.
Kentucky officials say they sent a letter to manufacturers, distributors and retailers of malt beverages asking them to voluntarily stop selling the drinks.
ABC Malt Beverage officials called the action necessary while they await further information.