Caffeine Controversy: Did Bawang Chaji Face an Unwarranted Backlash?

Recently, Bawang Chaji has been mistakenly associated with “soft drugs” or “quasi-drugs” due to its caffeine content. The controversy started with social media content creator Ma Dugong, who stated: “High-caffeine drinks like Bawang Chaji are effectively skirting the edge of quasi-drugs.”

This statement, when isolated and shared, quickly spread on social media, linking Bawang Chaji to “soft drugs.” However, factual data provides clarity:

1. Caffeine Content in Perspective
2. • Some Bawang Chaji drinks contain relatively high caffeine: e.g., “Wanli Mulan” (large) contains ~235mg, “Boya Juexian” ~105mg per 500ml.
   • For comparison, brewed coffee typically contains 266–268mg per 500ml, and milk tea varies widely, with some reaching 406mg/500ml.
   • The National Center for Food Safety Risk Assessment recommends a safe caffeine intake of 400mg/day for healthy adults—roughly 2 cups of coffee or 3 cups of milk tea.
3. Caffeine Is Not a Drug
   Shanghai anti-drug authorities clarified that caffeine only falls under controlled substances when highly purified and not intended for consumption. Regular beverages do not fall into this category.
4. Brand Response and Transparency
5. • Bawang Chaji has engaged its legal team to defend against false claims.
   • The brand also educates consumers about caffeine, providing clear labeling and multiple caffeine-level options. Their “Caffeine Traffic Light” system indicates: Green (<50mg/cup), Yellow (50–100mg/cup), Red (>100mg/cup). Online orders display exact amounts.
   • Offering diverse product options allows consumers to choose based on their caffeine needs.

In conclusion, this incident reflects a misinterpretation rather than a fault of the brand. Science-backed data, transparent information, and diversified choices are key to building consumer trust.