Côte d’Ivoire/Ban on energy drinks: The real risk to public health lies in drugs
Drugs and toxic substances have become a significant public health hazard in Côte d’Ivoire, with many young people using them casually and frequently. This alarming social issue is exacerbated by the easy availability of these harmful products in the market, making them accessible to the general population.
On the other hand, alcoholic energy drinks, which are manufactured according to safety standards for consumption, have faced harsh penalties, including a nationwide ban in Côte d’Ivoire.
This decision, taken nearly a year ago, was justified by the need to protect public health and shield the youth from addiction, as these beverages were blamed for contributing to undesirable behavior among young consumers.
The ban was implemented following claims that these alcoholic energy drinks were highly harmful.
Social media was flooded with articles and videos alleging that these drinks caused delirium and even turned young people into “zombies” after consumption.
However, it has come to light that some youth, in search of stronger sensations, were mixing these drinks with toxic substances.
What puzzles many Ivorians is the focus on banning alcoholic energy drinks while overlooking the widespread sale of harmful products like tramadol, a painkiller with dangerous side effects.
When mixed with any beverage, tramadol’s effects become even more hazardous, as noted by scientists.
This selective approach has failed to address the root of the problem, as the issue with the youth persists despite the ban on energy drinks.
Ivorian youth continue to harm themselves with these toxic products, and it is urgent for the authorities to take decisive action.
In the meantime, it would be appropriate to rectify the injustice done to merchants by lifting the unfair restrictions on the sale of alcoholic energy drinks.
Sherif Touré
