NRI's energy drink under scanner for 13 deaths in US

Bhargava has been ranked by Forbes magazine among the 400 richest people in America and has a networth of USD 1.5billion.

The readily available two-ounce caffeine and vitamin shot claims to have a 90 per cent market share in the energy shot sector and boasted of over USD 600 million in sales 2011, according to Forbes.

The FDA, however, said complaints by the consumers and doctors do not necessarily mean that the drink is responsible for the deaths or injuries but the agency would investigate each case.

"It is important to note that while those who voluntarily report an illness or injury (such as medical professionals, family members, or the consumers themselves) typically identify the product that they assume caused the injury or illness, FDA as a scientific public health agency must carefully investigate and evaluate all possible causes before deciding whether the product actually caused the medical problem," the FDA said in a statement.

Elaine Lutz, a spokeswoman for Living Essentials, distributor of 5-Hour Energy said the company is "unaware" of any deaths proven to have been caused by the consumption of the energy shot.

Lutz said Living Essentials takes reports of any "potential adverse event tied to our products very seriously.

We fully comply with all of our reporting requirements."

She added that the company is strictly regulated by and complies with Dietary

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