The 'Super Creatine' False Advertising Lawsuit
For years, Bang energy drinks marketed their product as containing a patented ingredient called "Super Creatine," claiming it was a highly effective form of creatine. The marketing touted benefits like improved performance and even suggested it could help with neurological disorders, with some claims describing it as "20 times more effective" than standard creatine. However, rival company Monster Energy initiated a lawsuit that revealed these claims to be false.
During the trial, a jury found that Bang's claims were deceptive and that their drinks did not contain actual, effective creatine. The ingredient was chemically identified as creatyl-L-leucine, a dipeptide of creatine and L-leucine. Crucially, the court established that this compound was not a bioavailable or effective form of creatine for muscle saturation, as robustly studied creatine monohydrate is. The court issued a permanent injunction, forcing Bang to remove the "Super Creatine" label from its marketing materials.
Creatyl-L-Leucine vs. Creatine Monohydrate
It is important to understand the difference between the ingredient Bang advertised and the industry-standard supplement. Creatyl-L-leucine is a chemical compound created by bonding creatine to the amino acid L-leucine. While it is technically 'creatine-related,' it does not function in the same way as creatine monohydrate. Creatine monohydrate is the most researched and clinically proven form of the supplement, widely recognized for its ability to increase muscle phosphocreatine stores and enhance high-intensity exercise capacity. The creatyl-L-leucine found in Bang, however, was not shown to produce these physiological benefits in a beverage format.
What's Actually in Current Bang Energy Drinks?
Following the legal settlement, Bang removed the false claims and updated its packaging and ingredient lists. While the product still offers a potent energy boost, it no longer relies on any form of creatine to market performance benefits. Current Bang energy drinks typically contain the following key ingredients:
- Caffeine: A high dose, often 300mg per 16-ounce can, for alertness and energy.
- Essential Amino Acids (EAAs): These are the essential building blocks for protein synthesis.
- Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): An antioxidant involved in energy production.
- B-Vitamins: Important for metabolism and energy.
- Zero Sugar, Calories, and Carbs: The drink uses artificial sweeteners to provide flavor without added sugar.
Understanding the Product Distinctions
It is vital for consumers to distinguish between the various products offered by the Bang brand, as not all their products have had the same formulation history. While the canned energy drink was the subject of the false advertising lawsuit, some Bang pre-workout powders contained actual creatine monohydrate and other proven ingredients. This distinction can be confusing for consumers who might assume the ingredients are consistent across all product lines. When considering any Bang product, it is crucial to read the specific ingredient label rather than relying on past marketing slogans.
Creatine Monohydrate vs. 'Super Creatine'
| Feature | Creatine Monohydrate (Standard) | 'Super Creatine' (Bang) |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Composition | Pure creatine molecule | Creatyl-L-leucine peptide |
| Form | Powder, capsules, etc. | Dipeptide in liquid beverage |
| Scientific Efficacy | Extensive research supports ergogenic effects (strength, power, mass) | No evidence supporting muscle saturation or effectiveness |
| Legal Status | Standard, legal supplement ingredient | Subject of false advertising lawsuit |
| Market Availability | Available globally in supplement form | Removed from Bang's marketing and product formulations |
Conclusion: No Creatine in Your Bang Energy Drink
Ultimately, if you are consuming a Bang energy drink today, you are not getting a performance dose of creatine. The legal battle with Monster Energy and the subsequent settlement forced the company to cease its misleading marketing, revealing that the "Super Creatine" was a non-bioactive compound. While Bang still provides a significant dose of caffeine and other vitamins, it is inaccurate to assume it contains creatine. Consumers seeking the proven benefits of creatine should opt for a well-researched, stand-alone creatine monohydrate supplement, as recommended by reputable sources. The Bang lawsuit serves as an important lesson for consumers to remain vigilant and critically evaluate marketing claims on dietary and performance supplements.
For more information on creatine and its benefits, refer to health authorities like the Cleveland Clinic: Creatine: What It Does, Benefits, Supplements & Safety.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What was the 'Super Creatine' ingredient in Bang energy?
'Super Creatine' was the marketing name for creatyl-L-leucine, a peptide bonding creatine to L-leucine, but was not proven to be an effective form of creatine.
Does Bang still advertise 'Super Creatine' on its cans?
No. Following a false advertising lawsuit, Bang's parent company was ordered to stop using the "Super Creatine" claim.
Does Bang energy drink provide any creatine benefits?
No. Since the lawsuit and subsequent reformulations, current Bang energy drinks contain no actual, effective creatine and therefore provide no performance benefits associated with creatine supplementation.
Was there a Bang product that contained actual creatine?
Yes, some of Bang's pre-workout powders did contain clinically effective doses of creatine monohydrate, but the canned energy drinks did not.
What are the main active ingredients in a modern Bang energy drink?
Modern Bang energy drinks primarily contain high levels of caffeine, essential amino acids (EAAs), CoQ10, and B-vitamins.
How did the Bang creatine lawsuit affect the company?
After losing the lawsuit and being ordered to pay significant damages, Bang's parent company, Vital Pharmaceuticals, filed for bankruptcy in 2022.
What is creatine monohydrate and how is it different from 'Super Creatine'?
Creatine monohydrate is a well-researched, standard form of creatine known to be effective for muscle performance. 'Super Creatine' was an ineffective marketing claim used by Bang.
