Lazy Cakes—They Look Fun But Could Be Dangerous

It seems we’re always hearing about a new aid to help us wake up or fall asleep. Now there’s a brownie snack that can help you go to sleep. Called Lazy Cakes, these brownies are similar to relaxation drinks such as Dream Water, Mini chill, Relax Zen and Drank. The Early Show on CBS reported on Lazy Cakes earlier this week. Melatonin is a key ingredient in these products; it is what causes the sleepiness. But products containing melatonin are raising concerns.

Dr. David Seres, of the Columbia University Medical Center, says melatonin should not be used as an ingredient in food. "There's a real potential danger there," he said. "... Melatonin has a lot of research behind it, but there's just as much showing that there's potential harm as with good."

The American Association of Poison Control Centers has had more calls about melatonin than any other supplement; most calls have involved children. Pretty scary. Not only that, the FDA has issued a warning letter to the makers of Drank about safety concerns related to melatonin. And, Illinois Senator Dick Durbin is now calling for tougher federal regulations.  

The small print on Lazy Cakes says it’s not for children but it appears the packaging is fun and engaging; almost an invitation to kids…well, at least a temptation. The state of Arkansas has recently banned brownies with melatonin including Lazy Cakes. Chances are good that more bans will be coming from other states.

Despite the concerns and bans of melatonin in food products, sales of products like Lazy Cakes and Drank show little sign of winding down. Whoa. Watch what you’re eating. Right?

See The Early Show segment on Lazy Cakes.