Boston, Massachusetts – Panera Bread is facing a series of lawsuits following the death of two individuals and the permanent heart injury of another, all allegedly linked to the company’s Charged Lemonade drinks. In response to the legal challenges, Panera Bread has announced plans to phase out the controversial menu item.
The first lawsuit involved a Pennsylvania college student with a pre-existing heart condition who passed away after consuming the highly caffeinated lemonade. According to court documents, the student suffered a fatal cardiac arrest and had a heart rhythm condition called long QT syndrome. The victim’s family attributed her death to the consumption of the Charged Lemonade.
Another lawsuit was filed by the family of a Florida man who died after regularly consuming the drink. The man, who had developmental disabilities and high blood pressure, went into cardiac arrest and was pronounced dead shortly after leaving a Panera Bread location. The lawsuit alleges that the consistent consumption of Charged Lemonade led to his untimely death.
A third lawsuit was brought forward by a 28-year-old Rhode Island woman who claims to have suffered permanent heart injuries after drinking the highly caffeinated beverage. The lawsuit detailed her experience of heart palpitations and other symptoms following the consumption of the lemonade, resulting in ongoing health issues.
Panera Bread has responded to the lawsuits by announcing the removal of Charged Lemonade from its menu. The company acknowledged the concerns raised by guests and emphasized its commitment to providing a diverse range of beverages, including options with lower sugar and caffeine content.
The controversy surrounding the Charged Lemonade also raised questions about the level of caffeine in the drink, with reports indicating that a large serving contained up to 390 milligrams of caffeine, exceeding the recommended daily limit by the FDA. Panera Bread has since updated its nutrition information to reflect the caffeine content accurately.
In light of the lawsuits and public outcry, Panera Bread has faced scrutiny over the marketing and labeling of the Charged Lemonade. While the company initially described the drink as plant-based and clean with caffeine equivalent to its dark roast coffee, subsequent revelations about the actual caffeine content have led to increased awareness among consumers.
As Panera Bread moves forward with phasing out the controversial menu item, the focus has shifted to providing transparency and ensuring the safety of its beverage offerings. The company’s decision to remove the Charged Lemonade reflects a commitment to addressing customer concerns and prioritizing the well-being of its patrons.