HOLMDEL, NJ -- Several middle school students here reportedly fell ill after drinking a relaxation drink marketed by Marley Beverage Co., prompting an investigation by the school district's foodservice provider.
Chartwells, the school dining service division of Compass Group, said it has removed Marley's Mellow Mood drinks from William R. Satz School and Holmdel High School, and that the product was not approved for sale in any of its schools. An onsite manager has also been removed pending the investigation.
It is unclear what symptoms the sickened students who drank the relaxation drinks exhibited.
"We sincerely regret that this product was sold and that students had an adverse reaction to it," Chartwell's said in a statement. "Chartwells takes great pride and care in partnering with our school communities to provide the best school dining experience possible and we take this situation very seriously."
Marley's Mellow Mood drink, created in partnership with reggae legend Bob Marley's family, is formulated with valerian root, which is associated with promoting relaxation and reducing stress.
Marley Beverage Co. said in a statement that its packaging clearly states that Marley's Mellow Mood is not intended for consumption by children. The company said it has launched its own internal investigation into the incident.
