FDA seeks data on alcohol, caffeine in drinks

* FDA asks makers of caffeinated alcoholic drinks for data

* 19 attorneys general sent letter to FDA with concerns

WASHINGTON, Nov 13 (Reuters) - U.S. health regulators requested information from nearly 30 makers of caffeinated alcoholic beverages on why they believe their products are safe.

The companies have 30 days to send data showing how caffeine can be "safely and lawfully" added to alcoholic drinks, Joshua Sharfstein, principal deputy commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration, said on Friday.

The FDA took action after 18 attorneys general from states including New York and Arizona sent a letter to the agency raising questions about the safety of these drinks. A city attorney from San Francisco also signed the letter.

This letter was accompanied by a note from scientists who argued that the mix of caffeine and alcohol could increase the risk of violent behavior, Sharfstein said.

The FDA only approves caffeine as an additive for soft drinks and has not approved its use in alcoholic beverages.

In the past year, Anheuser-Busch InBev (ABI.BR) and MillerCoors LCC have agreed to discontinue their caffeinated alcoholic drinks, including Sparks, the FDA said.

Among the companies targeted in this query is United Brands Co, maker of Joose, the FDA said. (Reporting by Deepa Seetharaman; Editing by Derek Caney)