Marley in a Can

A friend called me on Friday to tell me about an incident that occurred at Satz.  A number of students (her son included) consumed “Marley in a Can” which is actually called Marley’s Mellow Mood.  Students were not feeling well, they were lethargic and reported feeling “weird”.  Allegedly the school is having some samples of the beverage tested.

Well, it is no surprise because the product which is an “anti-energy” drink, boasts that it promotes relaxation in the spirit of Bob Marley.  Let’s say most kids are not accustomed to this sedate feeling.  More importantly – why was a product like this sold in the school at all?  The label clearly states “not intended for children.”  Hello – who is the consumer in a school?

There is supposed to be a school “wellness” policy which impacts the foods sold on school property.  Marley’s Mellow Mood’s first ingredient after water is sugar.  It is my understanding that schools are not supposed to be selling products like these.

While these anti-energy drinks are not “as bad” as energy drinks, the fact is that none of these beverages belong in schools – not even soda or sports drinks.  To me, if it’s not water, milk or 100% fruits juice – there is no reason for it to be sold in the schools.  The website claims the beverage contains valerian root, yet the ingredient label doesn’t state it is in the product.  Valerian root is used in the
same manner as melatonin.

Kids are not aware of the herbal ingredients, or their intended "claims" in products like this or Vitamin Water and we do them a disservice by offering them for
sale in schools.  Parents should spend time speaking with their children about the food and beverage choices they make.  However, the school should be a safe environment for kids – which includes safe food and beverages.

Just because it’s “natural” does not mean it’s safe.  The DSHEA legislation of 1994 keeps supplements, herbs, plant extracts, vitamins and minerals in an unregulated
space.  As a parent, I would not want my children to be guinea pigs for industry and neither should you.