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High-alcohol, ready-to-drink cocktails spark overconsumption concerns for Gen Z drinkers
A wave of sweet, high-alcohol canned cocktails is gaining traction among young drinkers, raising concerns among some experts.
BuzzBallz, a brand of pre-mixed, ready-to-drink alcoholic cocktails created in 2009, has gained renewed attention online in recent years, especially among young adults.
Sold in small, neon-colored round containers, most BuzzBallz drinks are about 200 milliliters of 15% alcohol-by-volume (ABV), containing nearly two standard alcoholic drinks in a single container.
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One viral TikTok video shows a man approaching young adults and asking them to chug a BuzzBallz Biggie in public for $100. The supersized version contains 1.75 liters of 15% ABV alcohol.
The video, which garnered more than 750,000 likes, drew thousands of comments from stunned viewers.
“I’d do this for free,” one person wrote.
“My problem is, I would do this for far less money,” another said.
The sweetness and drinkability of BuzzBallz products play a “significant role” in their popularity, said Cesar Wurm, a Georgia-based hospitality executive and author of “The Powers of Addiction: Finding Freedom in Acceptance and Recovery.”
Wurm told Fox News Digital that higher alcohol content can be masked by flavor — making it harder for people to gauge how much they’re drinking.
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“For a younger or less experienced consumer, that disconnect between taste and potency can increase risk,” he said.
There is also a behavioral component, Wurm said, as members of Gen Z tend to “value experiences, social connection and immediacy.”
Ready-to-drink beverages “fit seamlessly into that with no preparation required, easy to share and highly ‘social media friendly,'” he added.
The bright packaging can also “create a perception that the product is more casual or harmless than it actually is,” Wurm said.
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“From a risk perspective, the combination of high alcohol content, ease of consumption and appealing design can accelerate overconsumption, especially in unstructured environments,” he noted.
“The concern is less about the format itself and more about how accessible and unintimidating it makes higher-alcohol products.”
Wurm, who has been sober for more than a decade, emphasized the importance of “awareness, education and transparency around what’s actually being consumed.”
He added that Gen Z is “one of the most mindful generations when it comes to health and wellness.”
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“We’re seeing a parallel rise in moderation, sobriety-curious behavior and non-alcoholic alternatives, which suggests this is not a one-directional trend, but rather a more complex relationship with alcohol overall,” he said.
Ravi Sawhney, a design expert and founder of RKS Design, said the drinks are “designed experiences.”
“When something looks fun and harmless, we unconsciously assign it less risk, even when the opposite is true,” Sawhney, who is based in California, told Fox News Digital.
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“For Gen Z, who are highly attuned to visual culture and identity signaling, these drinks can feel more like an extension of lifestyle than a substance with consequences. That disconnect between how it feels and what it actually does is where the real risk lies.”
A BuzzBallz spokesperson told Fox News Digital the company’s products are “intended strictly for individuals of legal drinking age.”
“We love that the brand is highly social and associated with fun, but we are also very intentional about our role in promoting responsible consumption,” the spokesperson said.
“We fully support and promote responsible drinking practices and do not encourage illegal, excessive or irresponsible consumption in any way.”
The spokesperson added that BuzzBallz’s marketing is “focused on the social occasion, not the act of consumption itself.”
“By doing so, we ensure BuzzBallz is always portrayed as a fun, colorful, portable accessory made for adult social moments like a beach day, a concert or a party,” the spokesperson added.
The company is based in Carrollton, Texas. In 2024, it was acquired by Sazerac Company, a major global spirits company.
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Dave Mason, co-founder of legendary British rock band Traffic, dead at 79
Dave Mason, co-founder of the British rock band Traffic, has died. He was 79.
“It is with deep and profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of Dave Mason,” a statement on the musician’s official Instagram read. “On Sunday, April 19, after cooking an amazing dinner with his beloved wife Winifred, he sat down to take a nap with sweet Star (the maltese) at his feet.”
“He passed away peacefully, in his favorite chair, surrounded by the beautiful Carson Valley that he loved so much. A storybook ending. On his own terms. Which is how he lived his life right up until the end. He leaves a lasting imprint on the soundtrack of our lives and the hearts he has lifted. His legacy will be cherished forever.”
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In a statement to Deadline, the rock legend’s representative said, “On behalf of his family, it is with deep and profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of Dave Mason.”
“On Sunday, April 19, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, celebrated songwriter, musician, singer, and author, passed away peacefully at his home in Gardnerville, NV.”
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“Dave Mason lived a remarkable life devoted to the music and the people he loved,” the spokesperson added.
The cause of his death is unknown.
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Fans quickly flocked to social media to share their condolences.
“I am so sad to hear about his passing. He was a GOAT – amazing song writer, guitarist and performer. He will be sorely missed. My sincere condolences to Winifred. May his memory be a blessing,” one user wrote on Instagram.
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“From a long, long time fan, roadie, and believer in his messages… thank you, Mr. Dave Mason for sharing your talents, gifts, and soul energies with us all. Rest in purity,” another added.
In 2024, Mason canceled his “Traffic Jam Tour” due to “a serious heart condition,” according to Deadline. A year later, the guitarist announced his retirement, citing “ongoing health challenges.”
Mason is survived by his wife, Winifred Wilson, and daughter Danielle, as well as several nieces and nephews.
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With Clarity Mother’s Day sale: Save up to 30% on lab-grown diamond gifts
Jewelry gifts can get expensive, but during With Clarity’s Mother’s Day sale, you save up to 30% on select lab-grown diamond styles, from classic studs and gold hoops to dainty bracelets and cross necklaces. Shop now before the sale ends May 10.
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Original price: $1,210
Diamond stud earrings are a jewelry box staple. This pair features two 2-carat round lab-grown diamonds set in platinum or white, rose or yellow gold. Currently 30% off, this is the highest discount you’ll find on this list.
Original price: $800
This solitaire necklace adds sparkle with a round-cut lab-grown diamond and layers easily with other pieces. Choose from yellow, rose or white gold, with diamond sizes ranging from a half carat to two carats to suit her style.
Original price: $790
Give a gift that feels personal with these birthstone and diamond studs. A round-cut lab-grown diamond sits above a floating emerald, ruby or sapphire for a tasteful pop of color.
READ MORE: Practical Mother’s Day gifts under $50 she’ll actually want
Original price: $830
Everyone needs a pair of gold hoops, and diamonds make them even better. These hoops feature 48 diamonds set in white, yellow or rose gold. They’re a timeless choice for special occasions or everyday wear.
Original price: $720
This duet necklace pairs emerald-cut and round-cut lab-grown diamonds for a look that stands out. The 18-inch chain comes in sterling silver or white, yellow or rose gold and closes with a secure clasp.
Original price: $760
Sparkle from every angle with this necklace. Five lab-grown diamonds line a white, yellow or rose gold chain, adding just enough elegance for dressier outfits without feeling overdone for everyday wear.
Original price: $1,000
A petite lab-grown diamond bracelet delivers a tennis bracelet feel without the bulk. A tight row of lab-grown diamonds lines half the chain for a simple, refined look she can wear on repeat. Snag it for $150 off during the sale.
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Original price: $990
This drop necklace combines three diamonds for a polished, eye-catching statement. Customize the chain and stones — choose white, yellow or rose gold, or swap in emeralds, rubies or sapphires.
Original price: $400
These lab-grown diamond-encrusted earrings hug the outer ear, leaving room on the earlobes for studs or hoops. The vine-inspired design adds a touch of sparkle without weighing her down.
Original price: $690
This lab-grown pendant elevates a classic cross necklace with small round diamonds and a standout princess-cut center stone. It’s a meaningful gift she can wear daily.
Original price: $760
Another great stacking option, these huggies blend the look of hoops and studs into one versatile style. Each showcases a diamond totaling a half carat set at the center, creating a noticeable shine as the earring wraps the lobe.
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Original price: $810
A symbol of lasting love, this dainty circle pendant makes a meaningful Mother’s Day gift. It features 25 lab-grown diamonds totaling a quarter carat, set in white, yellow or rose gold on an 18-inch sterling silver chain.
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Sheriff leading Nancy Guthrie probe admits quitting past police job to dodge discipline
The lawyer for Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos, who is helming the months-long search for missing Nancy Guthrie, has responded to a list of concerns from local leaders about the top cop’s leadership.
Nanos acknowledged through his attorney that he resigned from the El Paso Police Department in 1982 to avoid a three-day suspension for insubordination, while defending apparent inconsistencies in his sworn deposition testimony about his disciplinary history.
On April 7, the Pima County Board of Supervisors demanded the sheriff answer questions after allegations of perjury emerged following his deposition in a First Amendment lawsuit brought against him by the president of the Pima County Deputies Association, Sgt. Aaron Cross.
Nanos stated under oath that he had never been suspended as a result of disciplinary action while working as a law enforcement officer.
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According to an April 21 letter from his lawyer, James Cool, he misunderstood the question.
Nanos has never been suspended from the Pima County Sheriff’s Department in a career that began in 1984. Cool acknowledged that he was suspended repeatedly in his prior role at the El Paso Police Department in Texas, a job he resigned from in 1982 to avoid further disciplinary action.
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“It is 100% correct that Sheriff Nanos was never suspended during his four decades of decorated and faithful service with the Pima County Sheriff’s Department (‘PCSD’),” Cool wrote in a 12-page letter to the board. “However, Sheriff Nanos was suspended more than forty years ago while employed by El Paso Police Department. In the context of his live deposition, Sheriff Nanos did not understand the question related to discipline with a different agency not governed by the Arizona Peace Officer’s Bill of Rights.”
Nanos’ lawyers accused Cross and former PCSD Lt. Heather Lappin, Nanos’ most recent election challenger, of “sustained findings of misconduct.”
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“Chock full of lies,” Cross said of Cool’s letter. “But did you notice it wasn’t a sworn statement, as required?”
The board voted on April 7 to have Nanos answer questions “under oath.”
County board members have questioned whether Nanos used his position to interfere with the election and wrongfully targeted Lappin for investigation during the campaign.
Attached to the letter, Cool included a copy of a March 11 note from the Justice Department informing County Administrator Jan Lesher that the former U.S. Attorney for Arizona under the Biden administration found “no federal predicate” for a criminal investigation into the election allegations.
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“We have no further response to provide beyond what was already communicated in December 2024,” current U.S. Attorney for the District of Arizona Timothy Courchaine wrote.
Cool defended Nanos’ handling of the sheriff’s department budget, argued that the sheriff should not have to answer all of the board’s questions in a public setting, and downplayed concerns of retaliation against Cross and Lappin. Both of them have pending lawsuits.
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Cool also included a copy of Nanos’ 1984 resume, in which lists his hobbies as “boxing, fishing, pool, crosswords and physical exercise.”
After leaving the El Paso Police Department, Nanos worked briefly in sales and then as a security guard before joining the PCSD in 1984 as a corrections officer.
Guthrie is believed to have been abducted from her home in the Catalina Foothills, north of Tucson, Arizona, in the early hours of Feb. 1. A masked intruder appears on doorbell camera video. Her back door was found propped open the following morning. Her whereabouts remain unknown.
She is the mother of “Today” co-host Savannah Guthrie, who has put $1 million toward the combined reward for finding her.
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