The Science Behind Breathalyzer Readings
To understand if energy drinks can trigger a breathalyzer, it's crucial to know how these devices work. A breathalyzer estimates blood alcohol content (BAC) by analyzing alcohol in exhaled breath from the lungs. Highly calibrated breathalyzers used by police detect ethanol with precision. However, 'mouth alcohol,' from substances in the mouth or digestive tract, can interfere and cause a false high reading. Sources include mouthwash, fermented foods, and trace ethanol in some drinks. This mouth alcohol dissipates quickly, which is why a 15-minute observation period is standard before a test.
The Energy Drink Connection: How False Positives Occur
Studies have shown that many energy drinks contain residual ethanol from production, which can cause temporary false positives on breathalyzers if a test is taken immediately after consumption. A study by the Missouri Department of Health confirmed that while advanced breathalyzers weren't affected, portable breath tests (PBTs) showed positive results within one minute of volunteers drinking energy drinks. These false readings disappeared after 15 minutes, indicating they were due to mouth alcohol, not bloodstream alcohol.
What Other Common Items Can Cause False Positives?
- Mouthwash and Breath Sprays: Often contain high alcohol levels.
- Fermented Foods: Ripe fruits, bread, and pastries can have trace alcohol.
- Medicines: Some cough syrups and other medications contain alcohol.
- Medical Conditions: Diabetes can produce acetone, which some older breathalyzers might mistake for alcohol.
- Belching or Burping: Can bring up alcohol vapor from the stomach.
Portable vs. Evidential Breathalyzers
The type of breathalyzer impacts the risk of a false positive from an energy drink.
| Factor | Portable Device (PBT) | Evidential Device (EBT) |
|---|---|---|
| Accuracy | Generally lower; for roadside screening. | High accuracy; provides court evidence. |
| Sensor Technology | Less specific semiconductor sensors. | More precise fuel-cell or infrared technology. |
| Test Purpose | Helps establish probable cause for arrest. | Produces legally admissible BAC evidence. |
| Risk of Mouth Alcohol False Positive | Higher risk, especially immediately after consumption. | Lower risk due to advanced technology and procedures. |
| Safeguards | Fewer or none against mouth alcohol. | Built-in detection and observation periods. |
How to Avoid a False Positive
To prevent a false positive from an energy drink, focus on eliminating mouth alcohol:
- Wait: Allow at least 15 minutes after finishing the drink before taking a test.
- Rinse: Thoroughly swish and spit water to clear residual alcohol.
- Inform: Tell the officer you recently had an energy drink and request the 15-minute observation.
- Consider Refusing PBT (where legal): Roadside PBTs are voluntary in some areas and less accurate than evidential tests.
- Contact a Lawyer: If arrested based on a suspected false positive, consult a DUI defense attorney.
Conclusion
Energy drinks can cause a temporary breathalyzer false positive due to trace ethanol and mouth alcohol, primarily on less accurate portable devices immediately after consumption. This issue is short-lived and doesn't reflect actual BAC. Understanding the difference between mouth and deep-lung alcohol is key. Waiting 15 minutes and rinsing your mouth are effective ways to ensure an accurate test.
How the Energy Drink Test Was Conducted in the Missouri Study
The Missouri study tested 27 energy drink brands, confirming trace ethanol in many. Volunteers were tested with PBTs one minute and 15 minutes after drinking. Positive results appeared within the first minute but vanished by the 15-minute mark, highlighting the importance of the standard observation period for reliable results.
What to Do If You're Pulled Over After an Energy Drink
If stopped after consuming an energy drink, calmly inform the officer and request the 15-minute observation period to allow mouth alcohol to dissipate. If arrested, document details like when you finished your drink and the test time for your legal defense. Consulting a lawyer familiar with breathalyzer issues is crucial.
Legal Implications of a False Positive
A false positive on a portable breathalyzer can provide probable cause for a DUI arrest. Challenging the reliability of the initial test, especially if the 15-minute observation was skipped, is key in court. A lawyer can help challenge the test's validity.
Conclusion: Navigating the Breathalyzer Test
While energy drinks can cause temporary breathalyzer issues due to mouth alcohol, this can be managed. By knowing how breathalyzers work, the difference between device types, and taking steps like waiting and rinsing, you can confidently approach a test. Awareness of potential interferences is the safest strategy.
Final Summary: Energy drinks can cause a temporary false positive on portable breathalyzer devices due to trace ethanol. This is caused by mouth alcohol, not blood alcohol, and can be avoided by waiting 15 minutes and rinsing your mouth with water.
For More Information: To understand breath testing science and accuracy, refer to resources like Smart Start.
The Difference Between Mouth and Deep Lung Alcohol
Breathalyzers measure deep lung alcohol, which reflects BAC, not mouth alcohol. Mouth alcohol from substances like energy drinks creates a temporary, concentrated vapor that yields a false high reading if tested immediately. Deep lung alcohol is absorbed into the bloodstream and exhaled.
Calibration and Reliability of Breathalyzers
Breathalyzer accuracy depends on regular calibration and maintenance. Law enforcement devices are calibrated on schedule, making them more reliable. However, factors like failing to observe the 15-minute waiting period can still lead to errors.
Addressing the High-Sugar and Fermentation Factor
Sugar alcohols in diet drinks can potentially affect interlock devices, though rarely. Sugary drinks can also ferment in the mouth or stomach, releasing small amounts of ethanol. This fermentation, combined with trace ethanol from production, further explains why rinsing and waiting are important before a breath test.
