Anheuser-Bush has recently released an energy drink called Spykes. The main difference between this and other energy drinks is that this one is an alcoholic beverage. Some consumer and parenting groups are accusing the company of intentionally marketing the product to teenagers.

"Spykes... has roughly the same alcohol content as wine and comes in such flavors as Spicy Mango and Hot Melons. But it is the energy-drink appeal and the marketing that is nearly exclusively present on the Internet that has some researchers worried."

Underage drinking accounts for over $20 billion in alcohol sales each year. And though Anheuser-Bush has released a statement claiming Spykes is intended for adults, researchers are doubtful and are calling both the drink and its marketing campaign "highly irresponsible". Read more at ABCNews.com.

Labels: alcohol, marketing, teenagers

Police and substance abuse officials in western states are beginning to report the appearance of candy-flavored methamphetamine. Strawberry, chocolate, and cola are among the flavors being marketed to younger people.

"They [meth dealers] are having a tough time selling this product, especially to younger people. What do people in marketing do when they have a tough time selling a product? They have to come up with some sort of gimmick."

It's believed that meth dealers hope to increase the drug's appeal, and make it seem less dangerous by making it smell and taste like candy. Read more at USAToday.com.

Labels: children, marketing, meth