By Deborah Nnamdi
The UK government has announced plans to ban the sale of high-caffeine energy drinks to children under the age of 16 in England, citing health and education concerns.
Health Minister Wes Streeting emphasized the need to protect young people from the effects of these drinks, some of which contain more caffeine than two cups of coffee.
“By preventing shops from selling these drinks to kids, we’re helping build the foundations for healthier and happier generations to come,” he said.
Despite a voluntary ban by many supermarkets, government figures show that up to one-third of 13- to 16-year-olds in England regularly consume energy drinks. Streeting questioned how students could be expected to perform well in school “if they have the equivalent of a double espresso in their system on a daily basis.”
The proposal responds to growing concerns from parents and educators about the impact of energy drinks on children’s sleep, concentration, and overall wellbeing. Streeting also noted that high-sugar versions contribute to tooth decay and rising obesity rates.
A 12-week public consultation will be launched to gather input from health experts, retailers, manufacturers, and the wider public.
Under current regulations, drinks containing more than 150mg of caffeine per litre must carry a warning label stating they are not recommended for children.
“Energy drinks might seem harmless, but they’re affecting kids’ sleep, focus, and health,” Streeting warned.
