Glucuronolactone
EFSA's 2009 opinion concluded that exposure to glucuronolactone via regular energy drink consumption is not of safety concern, with a NOAEL of 1000 mg/kg bw/day. However, energy drinks themselves carry risks from caffeine and sugar combinations, and high consumption patterns have been linked to acute health events.
What it is
D-glucurono-gamma-lactone, a naturally occurring carbohydrate metabolite of glucose.
Used as a non-essential ingredient in energy drinks; marketed for purported detoxification effects (no robust evidence).
Why it's flagged
- typically combined with high caffeine in energy drinks
- no demonstrated functional benefit
- concerns at very high consumption levels
What regulators actually say
"Exposure to taurine and D-glucuronolactone through regular consumption of energy drinks was not of safety concern"
"Caffeine, D-glucuronolactone and Taurine Content in Energy Drinks — exposure and risk assessment"
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Permitted in foods/supplements
European Union — EFSA
Not of safety concern at typical energy-drink levels (2009 opinion)
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