Caffeine

Warning Prop 65

For all products we provide the following general notice:
WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm - www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.

What is Proposition (Prop) 65?

California’s Proposition 65 entitles consumers to special warnings for products that contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer or reproductive harm above certain threshold levels. Prop 65 dictates that businesses with more than 10 employees that sell products in the state are required to provide “clear and reasonable” warnings about a chemical’s ability to cause cancer, reproductive har, or birth defects on packaging or labels.

What is included in the Prop 65 list?

Over 800 chemicals and compounds are included from naturally occurring compounds to synthetic and manmade chemicals that are present in our everyday lives. A few of these items are: additives or ingredients in pesticides; common household products; drugs, food or dyes; solvents; chemicals in manufacturing or construction; and by-products of chemical process.

What does Prop 65 mean for me?

Prop 65 is a right-to-know law that provides information on products to help consumers make more informed decisions in the form of pervasive labeling. However, the Prop 65 labels do not mention or identify the level of risk, specific to the compound. Because of this, Prop 65 may be confusing to consumers who are encountering it in their day-to-day lives.  

Moreover, it is important to understand how the threshold levels for Prop 65 inclusion are determined. The OEHHA has set “Safe Harbor” levels of exposure for many of the chemicals listed under Prop 65. If the amounts found in a certain product are less than the Safe Harbor level, the product does not require a warning label. It should be noted that Safe Harbor levels are frequently around 1,000 times lower than levels set by regulatory agencies such as the FDA, EPA and World Health Organization.

While Prop 65 labeling will give you more information, it’s important to keep in mind the broader perspective. Labels may not identify the actual compound or where the compound is located in the product, nor assess risk levels. Instead, keep in mind that for overall health it’s important to choose a dietary pattern that is rich in lean protein, healthy fats, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.