Panera Bread says it's axing popular item from its menus after spate of deaths trends now

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Panera Bread will phase out its controversial Charged Lemonade drinks from stores nationwide after they were linked to a several deaths.

A spokesperson for the chain said the change was part of a 'menu transformation' and internal memos suggest it could begin within the next two weeks.

The move comes after lawsuits filed against the company blamed the highly caffeinated drinks for two deaths and heart damage in a third patient.

The family of a Pennsylvania college student who had a pre-existing heart condition alleged she died after drinking a large Charged Lemonade last year.

A second lawsuit was filed in December by the family of a disabled Florida man, 46, who also died after drinking several Charged Lemonades.