University of Maryland crosses ethical boundaries with chocolate milk study, experts say

A specialty chocolate milk made in Maryland improved cognitive ability among high school football players — even those who experienced a concussion — according to a preliminary, unpublished study out of the University of Maryland, College Park.

If true, the findings could have big implications for athletics departments seeking ways to address one of the most pressing and dangerous sports injuries among high school and college athletes. What’s more, the research could be a windfall for the Western Maryland company, Fifth Quarter Fresh, that makes the drink.

But scientists and research ethicists who reviewed a summary of the study and a final project presentation provided to the Baltimore Business Journal said they are skeptical of the study’s methods and findings. Perhaps more importantly, they said they were shocked and confused by the University of Maryland’s decision to put out a press release about the study, which has not yet been peer-reviewed, published in a journal, or even written in full.

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