The article discusses efforts by doctors, led by Dr. David Jacobs and Dr. Matt Nelson, to urge the Big 12 Conference to reconsider its partnership with Monster Energy due to concerns about the impact of energy drink branding on children. They worry that young fans will associate energy drinks with becoming an athlete, especially since the branding appears on uniforms and at games.
Jacobs emphasized that the coalition’s goal is not to limit adult choices but to raise awareness about the health implications of energy drinks for youth. They have formed a 29-member coalition, contacted the Big 12, and created an online petition to further their public health message, advocating for a health review of the sponsorship.
Both BYU and the University of Utah acknowledged the concerns, but the Big 12 has not provided a comment. Monster Energy has received inquiries and is reviewing the situation. Data from the Utah Poison Control Center indicates that there are significant caffeine-related calls, including cases involving children and teenagers.
