After a man died from miscalculating the amount of caffeine powder he was meant to consume, the UK Food Standards Agency (FSA) and Food Standards Scotland (FSS) have issued a guidance to promote the safe manufacturing of food supplements containing high levels of caffeine.

In the fatal incident, a consumer using caffeine powder accidentally took a dose equaling the amount of caffeine in 200 cups of coffee. Additionally, a survey found that less than half of respondents look for dosage instructions on supplements, with 20 percent saying they do not read the label. Further research has demonstrated that many consumers are uneducated on the issue of caffeine in food supplements.

In this context, FSA and FSS have published guidance for food business operators reminding them of their legal responsibility to comply with food labeling and compositional requirements, providing advice on recommended caffeine levels to be used in supplements and providing clear dosage guidance.