Panera Bread has announced the removal of its highly caffeinated beverage, “Charged Lemonade,” from its menu following a series of wrongful death lawsuits filed against the company.
The decision comes after lawsuits were filed by the families of individuals who allegedly suffered fatal health complications after consuming the beverage. Among them was Sarah Katz, a 21-year-old University of Pennsylvania student, who reportedly died hours after consuming the drink due to a pre-existing heart condition.
The lawsuits argue that the caffeine content in the Charged Lemonade, particularly in larger servings, exceeds what was indicated on the warning label. Despite Panera’s assertion that the soda contained caffeine levels similar to their Dark Roast Coffee, plaintiffs claim that a single large serving contained significantly more caffeine than a cup of coffee.
In December, another lawsuit was filed on behalf of Dennis Brown, a 46-year-old man with developmental delay, who allegedly suffered cardiac arrest after consuming multiple servings of the beverage.
Similarly, a third lawsuit was filed by Lauren Skerritt, an athlete from Rhode Island, who claims to have sustained permanent heart injuries after consuming the Charged Lemonade.
Panera’s decision to discontinue Charged Lemonade is part of a larger menu revamp aimed at offering a broader selection of beverages with exciting and trendy flavors, while also providing options that are lower in sugar and caffeine, according to a company spokesperson.”
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