Red Bull 'safe to drink' despite three deaths

Health officials yesterday issued an assurance over the safety of the popular 'pick me up' drink Red Bull after the reported deaths of at least three people overseas.

Swedish authorities are investigating the deaths of at least two men and a woman who were believed to have consumed Red Bull - which contains caffeine and taurine, a nutritional ingredient - according to the Times in London yesterday.

Sweden's National Food Administration has issued a public warning advising people against taking Red Bull after drinking alcohol.

The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department said previous tests on Red Bull found the product was safe.

The department said it had contacted Swedish authorities for an update. 'The department suggests consumers should not be too worried,' a statement said.

Sales of Red Bull have been restricted to pharmacies in Norway, Denmark and France because of its high caffeine content. The Times said two of the victims died after mixing the drink with vodka. The third died after drinking several cans following an exercise session.