Sen. Schumer weighs in on Four Loko decision
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UNITED STATES - Senator Charles Schumer is responding to the Federal Trade Commission's decision to require Four Loko to make packaging changes to their products to settle a charge of deceptive advertising.
The FTC alleged that Four Loko manufacturers deceptively claimed that each can of the malt beverage had the alcohol equivalent of one or two regular 12 ounce beers, when it really contains the equivalent of four to five 12 ounce cans.
The commission says that drinking one can on a single occasion actually constitutes binge drinking and is not safe for consumers.
On the decision, Schumer said, "The FTC's step is in the right direction, but more must be done to ensure this company, and others like it, do not continue peddling this witches brew to our kids. Let this be a warning to any company that attempts to market dangerous products to our youth: do it, and we will come down on you hard."
Last year, Schumer successfully pushed the FDA to ban the use of caffeine in Four Loko and other alcoholic malt beverages, and urged the FTC to open an investigation into their deceptive advertising.
The makers of Four Loko-Phusion Projects released a statement in response to Schumer's and the FTC's comments about deceptive advertising.
Phusion says it disagrees with the allegations of packaging violations, but will make changes so consumers get all the information they need to make smart, informed decisions.
The company plans to develop a new re-sealable can for its 23.5 ounce Four Loko products and provide more information comparing the Four Loko's alcohol content to beer.
In the statement, the company says, "By taking these actions we are again demonstrating leadership, cooperation and responsible corporate citizenship."