Côte D’Ivoire: Should ivorian authorities rethink the ban on alcoholic energy drinks?
The responsible consumption of alcoholic energy drinks is not necessarily problematic, but mixing them with certain dangerous substances, such as tramadol, poses a serious public health risk. Paradoxically, while tramadol remains accessible on the Ivorian market, alcoholic energy drinks are subject to strict bans. This situation raises questions about the coherence of public health policies and the influence of certain unfair competition strategies.
Alcoholic energy drinks become a risk when mixed with substances like tramadol. Tramadol, an opioid analgesic, is known for its severe side effects, including respiratory depression, seizures, and dangerous interactions with alcohol and other substances. According to scientists, tramadol is more dangerous than alcoholic energy drinks when consumed with alcohol, whether it be beer, wine, champagne, or any other alcoholic beverage.
Despite the well-documented dangers of tramadol, this substance remains easily accessible on the Ivorian market. In contrast, alcoholic energy drinks have been banned. This ban raises important questions: why specifically target these drinks when substances with which dangerous mixes occur, like tramadol, are freely available? This inconsistency in substance regulation policies poses a major problem.
It is also concerning to note that some companies might be using unorthodox means to influence regulatory decisions. These unfair competition strategies aim to eliminate competitors from the market by pushing authorities to ban alcoholic energy drinks. This maneuver not only distorts competition but also penalizes honest traders operating in this sector.
Ivorian authorities must reconsider their approach to substance regulation. It is essential to find a balance that protects public health while ensuring fair competition. Rather than categorically banning alcoholic energy drinks, it would be wiser to enhance awareness of responsible consumption and take strict measures against genuinely dangerous substances like tramadol.
