Gas Station Brew: The Bizarre Beverage Sparking Alarming Addictions

In the quest for a healthier alternative to alcohol, some have stumbled upon a seemingly promising option that has turned into a nightmare of dependency. Enter Feel Free, an elixir packaged in eye-catching cobalt blue bottles and commonly found in gas stations. This drink, manufactured by Botanic Tonics, is currently the focal point of a class action lawsuit, as reported by Punch. Marketed as a natural energy booster, focus enhancer, and mood lifter, Feel Free has captivated consumers since its launch in 2021, racking up impressive sales figures and millions in revenue. However, it’s also responsible for sending some of its users down a slippery slope of addiction.

Feel Free’s active ingredient, kratom, is a plant derivative from the Kratom tropical tree. While it may sound like a harmless botanical, kratom carries addictive qualities that have ensnared many unsuspecting consumers. Punch reports that some users have become so dependent on the tonic that they emptied their bank accounts to sustain their habit, while others checked into rehab to endure the grueling withdrawal symptoms. This paints a grim picture of what was supposed to be a healthy substitute for alcohol.

Among the affected is 34-year-old Los Angeles resident Chasin Roberts, who shared his harrowing experience with Punch. He initially turned to Feel Free as a healthier option but quickly found himself spiraling. One bottle turned into three, then five, and eventually ten. The financial and emotional toll was immense, and Roberts’ story is just one of many. It’s a stark reminder that not all that glitters is gold, especially when it comes to quick-fix solutions for complex issues like alcohol dependency.

Adding fuel to the fire is the shaky legal status of kratom in the United States. In 2023, a jury in Washington state penalized another company selling a kratom-based elixir after the product was linked to a customer’s death. This sets a troubling precedent for Botanic Tonics, the company behind Feel Free. The class action lawsuit alleges that Botanic Tonics misled consumers by advertising Feel Free as a safe, non-alcoholic beverage, all while allegedly hiding its high kratom concentration. These deceptive practices have only exacerbated the situation, leading to public outcry and legal action.

Despite the ongoing lawsuit, Botanic Tonics has no plans to pull Feel Free from the shelves, according to Punch. CEO Cameron Korehbandi acknowledged the addiction stories but maintained that the drink was never intended to be addictive. The company’s founder, JW Ross, is aware of the issues but seems committed to continuing the product’s availability. This stance is likely to generate further debate and scrutiny as the legal proceedings unfold.

In the end, the saga of Feel Free serves as a cautionary tale for anyone seeking a quick escape from the clutches of alcohol. While the drink might promise increased energy, focus, and a better mood, the hidden risks can far outweigh the benefits. As the lawsuit against Botanic Tonics progresses, it remains to be seen whether the company will be held accountable for the turmoil caused by its so-called “natural” elixir. Until then, consumers would do well to read the fine print and tread carefully with any new “miracle” product that comes their way.