Parents launch campaign after daughter, 21, collapsed and died after consuming drink from Panera Bread

Sarah Katz, a 21-year-old college student from Jersey City, NJ, had always been careful about her heart condition. Diagnosed with Long QT syndrome, a rare disorder that affects the heart's electrical system, she took daily medication to manage her condition. Despite the challenges, Sarah remained optimistic, pursuing her dreams and interests.

However, in 2022, after drinking a 30-ounce Charged Lemonade from Panera Bread, Sarah's life came to a tragic end. Her parents believe that the energy drink, which contained 390 mg of caffeine, triggered a cardiac arrhythmia that caused her sudden death.

Her death is now the focal point of a larger conversation about the dangers of energy drinks, especially for those with underlying heart conditions. Sarah's parents have taken legal action against Panera, filing a wrongful death lawsuit, and have pushed for change on Capitol Hill, The New York Post reports.

They are working with Representative Robert Menendez (D-NJ) to pass the Sarah Katz Caffeine Safety Act, a bipartisan bill designed to require clearer labeling of caffeine content in energy drinks and menu items.

The push for energy drink regulation

As energy drinks continue to grow in popularity, especially among young adults, experts have expressed concern over the lack of regulation. Dr. Victoria L. Vetter, a cardiologist at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, highlighted the issue in her 2024 report, which called for stronger regulations in the energy drink market.

Sarah Katz. Credit: University of Pennsylvania

Despite being one of the most profitable markets, energy drinks are not strictly regulated in the U.S., especially compared to other caffeinated products like coffee or carbonated beverages. This leaves consumers, particularly younger people, vulnerable to excessive caffeine intake without clear information about the risks involved.

For Sarah's parents, this issue is deeply personal. They are determined to ensure that no other family has to experience the heartache they’ve endured. As they work on their foundation and advocate for the Sarah Katz Caffeine Safety Act, they hope to bring awareness and accountability to the growing caffeine industry.

Credit: Justin Sullivan / Getty

Legacy and advocacy for heart health

Sarah's tragic passing has sparked an outpouring of support and action, not only from her family but from others who have experienced similar losses. Organizations like Parent Heart Watch are rallying behind the Katz family, emphasizing the importance of early detection and public education on youth cardiac distress.

Through their advocacy, they aim to prevent more deaths and raise awareness about the dangers of energy drinks and caffeine overload.

As Sarah’s 25th birthday approaches, her legacy lives on through her family’s efforts. The Katz family continues to honor Sarah’s memory by pushing for policies that could save lives and protect future generations from similar tragedies.