(TNS) — As Panera Bread is reeling from various lawsuits over its Charged Lemonades, another food franchise, Dunkin’, has unveiled its own energy drink.
SPARKD’ Energy by Dunkin’ is an iced drink that comes in two flavors: Berry Burst and Peach Sunshine. The company’s press release says that the drinks are made with “vitamins, minerals and a kick of caffeine.”
“America turns to Dunkin’, from sunrise to sunset, to help them power through their day,” Beth Turenne, Dunkin’s Vice President of Category Management, said in the press release. “With the introduction of SPARKD’ Energy by Dunkin’, we set out to create a deliciously unique option for our guests. It’s not just another energy drink; it’s a totally new way to run on Dunkin’, incorporating the flavors that we know our fans enjoy.”
According to the Dunkin’ website, the drink has about 192 mg of caffeine in a large-sized cup. The FDA recommends 400 milligrams of caffeine per day, according to CNN, which is equal to about 4-5 cups of coffee.
Panera has come under fire for its caffeinated drinks, with some lawsuits claiming the high amount of caffeine led to the deaths of two people and severe health complications in another.
Despite this, energy drinks remain popular, CNN said, especially among men between the ages of 18 to 34, and grossed more than $21 billion in US sales in 2022.
In addition to the energy drinks, Dunkin’ also announced a number of new items to its spring menu, including a Churro Signature Latte, available iced or hot, that combines espresso with a “sweet churro flavor,” and is topped with whipped cream, a caramel drizzle and a dusting of cinnamon sugar.
There’s also the Cinnamon Vanilla Coffee a blend of the franchise’s original coffee and cream, but with notes of churro and vanilla flavors. It’s available iced or hot.
Other new menu items include a Churro Donut, a Breakfast Empanada and Banana Chocolate Chip Bread.