Saturday July 19, 2014 (foodconsumer.org) -- U.S. Food and Drug Administration posted a statement on July 18 to warn consumers of the potential dangers from consuming pure powdered caffeine.

The warning seems to be triggered by the death of Logan Stiner an Ohio teenager who died May 27 after consuming pure caffeine.

Caffeine is commonly used in beverages such as sports drinks as a functional ingredient.  It is also sold on Amazon and ebay directly to consumers.

The FDA is particularly concerned about pure caffeine sold in bulk bags on the Internet and recommends consumers should not consume pure caffeine.

One problem as the FDA points out is that the powdered caffeine is almost 100% pure and one single teaspoon of it is equivalent to the amount found in 25 cups of caffeine.

The FDA reminds consumers that caffeine is a powerful stimulant and caffeine overdose can cause erratic heartbeat, seizures and death.  Caffeine overdose can also lead to other symptoms including vomiting, diarrhea, stupor and disorientation.  

The FDA warns that severe adverse effects including death are more likely to result from consuming pure caffeine than drinking high amounts of coffee, tea and other caffeinated beverages.  

The FDA says that people with pre-existing heart conditions should not use powdered pure caffeine. (Edited by David Liu)