Fact-Checking The Claim: Do Monster And Celsius Energy Drinks Contain Dangerous Levels Of Cyanide?

In May 2024, a viral video surfaced across social media platforms, claiming that popular energy drinks like Monster and Celsius contain unhealthy levels of cyanide. This alarming assertion quickly gained traction, amassing over 147,000 views and 2,200 likes on TikTok alone. As the video spread, so did the fear surrounding these beverages, leading many to question their safety and the ingredients used in their production.

The video's creator stated, “Celsius energy drink has four times the amount of daily cyanide that human beings are meant to ingest,” a claim that sparked widespread concern. However, the truth behind this assertion is far less alarming than it may sound. In fact, energy drinks such as Monster and Celsius do not contain harmful levels of cyanide, and the claim has been rated as “False” by fact-checkers.

To better understand the situation, it's crucial to dissect the viral video's claims and examine the science behind the ingredients. The discussion will not only clarify misconceptions about cyanide but also highlight the importance of critical thinking when encountering sensational claims online.

Understanding Cyanide and Its Sources

Cyanide is often associated with toxicity and danger, but its presence in certain compounds does not necessarily imply harm. In fact, cyanide can be found in various foods, and the body actually has mechanisms to safely process it. For instance, the cyanide group is present in some vitamin B12 supplements, which include a form known as cyanocobalamin.

Hydrogen cyanide (HCN), on the other hand, is a highly toxic compound. It is essential to differentiate between cyanide as a group and the specific harmful form, hydrogen cyanide. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that hydrogen cyanide can interfere with the body's ability to use oxygen, leading to serious health risks. However, the levels of cyanide present in energy drinks like Monster and Celsius are significantly below harmful thresholds.

The Role of Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is vital for numerous bodily functions, including red blood cell production and nerve health. The synthetic form of B12, cyanocobalamin, contains a cyanide molecule but is considered non-toxic when consumed in normal dietary amounts. In reality, the average diet typically provides more safe cyanide exposure through fruits like cassava and certain nuts than one would encounter from energy drinks.

In fact, the amount of cyanide released during the metabolism of cyanocobalamin is minimal compared to what one might ingest from everyday foods. According to health authorities, the recommended daily intake of vitamin B12 is between 2-3 micrograms, while energy drinks usually contain only a fraction of that amount, making them safe for consumption.

Debunking the Viral Claims

The viral claims surrounding energy drinks like Monster and Celsius have been thoroughly debunked by various health organizations and fact-checking platforms. Celsius, for instance, directly addressed these rumors on their website, stating that the claims are untrue and lack scientific backing. They emphasized that both the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) confirm that cyanocobalamin at standard supplemental levels is safe for consumers.

Moreover, the scare tactics employed in the viral video were misleading. The speaker's assertion that cyanide in energy drinks comes from human sewage treatment plants is unfounded and exaggerated. In reality, the production of vitamin B12 is a controlled process involving fermentation with specific bacteria, not the collection of waste products.

Conclusion: Prioritizing Facts over Fear

As consumers, it's crucial to prioritize factual information over sensational claims, especially in an era where misinformation can spread rapidly online. The claims regarding unhealthy levels of cyanide in Monster and Celsius energy drinks have been proven false, and the scientific consensus supports their safety.

In conclusion, while it's essential to remain vigilant about what we consume, understanding the science behind ingredients can alleviate unfounded fears. Energy drinks like Monster and Celsius are safe to enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet, and the misinformation surrounding them should not deter consumers from making informed choices.