In recent years there has been an explosion of energy drinks with high levels of caffeine – a dangerous gateway drug on par with sniffing Sharpies. And while 64% of BYU students admit they’ve performed the latter substance abuse, many say they consider energy drinks to break the Word of Wisdom. 

Not all caffeinated drinks are created equal; the quantity of this laced drug varies greatly from product to product. Bang Energy is just one of many beverages to rapidly gain popularity in recent years. With 300 milligrams of sin per can, it is one of the most caffeinated energy drinks available today. 

But the truth remains unclear. The Word of Wisdom does not directly mention caffeine as the reason to not drink the official interpretation of “hot drinks”. To solve this spiritual riddle, we asked a handful of current BYU students if they consider Bang Energy to break the Word of Wisdom. 

“I suppose it’s not a hot drink, but the suggestive name is concerning,”’ said SFL student McKinly Smith. “Maybe if it was called ‘Marital Intimacy Energy,’ I would drink it more.” 

“Apparently you should be at least 18 years old to drink it? I couldn’t even give one to my girlfriend if I wanted to!” exclaimed student Tanner Marsh, who stands at the uncomfortable age of 21.

Other students were more willing to risk spiritual death and a crippling addiction, like Creative Writing student Chris Bowen.

“If it’s hot, you better not. But if it’s cold, you’re gold. I live by this,” he professed. 

“I don’t know, but the first time I tried one I fist-pumped to a Chainsmokers album for a whole hour – no break,” admitted Jaxon Magleby, a super-senior in the finance program. “Intense stuff.”

Intense stuff indeed. So is Bang Energy a great pick-me-up, or will it only let you down? While further studies and deliberation are needed, just abuse medical prescriptions like the rest of us. In the meantime, the Honor Code Office might have a possible field day on their hands.