When you think of powered drinks, what do you think of? Kool-aid packets? Lemonade? Sports drinks? What about alcohol? It might be time to start worrying about your teen getting ahold of this new alcohol trend.
In early April, the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau approved labels for seven varieties of “Palcohol”, or powered alcohol, ranging from straight vodka to a powdered margarita. This new form of alcohol can be easily hidden which makes it all that more dangerous.
With school ending, and teens being home alone during the summer, it’s important to talk to them about the dangers of alcohol, in all forms.
Look for ways to engage in conversation. Some tips for talking with your teen are:
- When playing sports or being outside with your children, talk to your child about what's going on in their life.
- Current events can lead to a dialogue where you can remind your child about the importance of making good decisions.
- Use the time spent driving in the car to ask and answer questions your child may have about different pressures or stress they may be facing in school or amongst friends.
Powered alcohol has not reached the market just yet, but it could sometime in the future. Palcohol previous received approval from the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau but is currently on hold. If it is later approved and then marketed towards the younger crowd, making teens aware of this dangerous product ahead of time can help prevent use and abuse.
For more tips and information about talking to your teens about alcohol, visit www.DrugFreeAz.org.
