Drank (soft drink)

Drank is a soft drink marketed as a relaxation beverage. Created in the mid-2000s, Drank is part of a category of beverages colloquially known as "anti-energy" drinks or relaxation drinks. Unlike traditional energy drinks that aim to boost energy levels through caffeine and other stimulants, Drank is formulated to provide a calming and relaxing effect on the consumer. It is often associated with the "slow down" lifestyle promoted in certain music and cultural scenes.

Ingredients

Drank's primary ingredients include a blend of herbal supplements known for their relaxing properties. These typically include:

• Valerian root: An herb that is often used to treat insomnia, anxiety, and other stress-related conditions.
• Melatonin: A hormone that plays a role in regulating sleep-wake cycles.
• Rose hips: Rich in vitamin C and used for their antioxidant properties.

These ingredients are combined with a grape-flavored soda base, creating a distinctive purple beverage that has become a recognizable feature of Drank.

Cultural Significance

Drank has gained notoriety in part due to its name and marketing, which play on the slang term "drank" used to refer to purple drank, a recreational drug concoction. However, Drank the soft drink does not contain any narcotics or illegal substances. Its association with relaxation and "slowing down" has made it popular in certain music genres like hip hop and scenes that promote a laid-back lifestyle.

Controversies and Criticisms

The marketing of Drank and similar relaxation beverages has faced criticism from health professionals and consumer advocacy groups. Concerns have been raised about the potential for misleading consumers regarding the health benefits and safety of consuming such drinks, especially when mixed with alcohol or other drugs. Additionally, there is skepticism about the effectiveness of the herbal ingredients in providing the claimed relaxation benefits.

Regulation and Availability

As a dietary supplement, Drank and similar products fall under the regulatory purview of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States. However, the FDA's oversight of dietary supplements is less stringent than for pharmaceuticals, leading to ongoing debates about the adequacy of regulation for relaxation drinks.

Drank is available in various retail outlets, including convenience stores and supermarkets, primarily in the United States. Its distribution and availability may vary depending on local regulations and market demand.

See Also

• Energy drink
• Dietary supplement
• Purple drank
• Valerian (herb)
• Melatonin