UK to ban selling of energy drinks to under-16s
Children will be protected from the harm caused by high-caffeine energy drinks under new proposals to ban their sale to under-16s, the government has announced.
The proposal would make it illegal to sell high-caffeine energy drinks containing more than 150mg of caffeine per litre to anyone aged under 16 years across all retailers, including online, in shops, restaurants, cafes, and vending machines. The proposals would not affect lower-caffeine soft drinks, nor tea and coffee.
Many major retailers already voluntarily restrict sales, but research suggests some smaller convenience stores continue selling to children, highlighting the need for a consistent approach that protects our children and is fairer for the industry.
A consultation launched today on the delivery of the ban will run for twelve weeks, gathering evidence from health experts, education leaders, retailers, manufacturers, local enforcement authorities, and the public.
“How can we expect children to do well at school if they have the equivalent of four cans of cola in their system daily?” said Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting.
“Energy drinks might seem harmless, but the sleep, concentration, and well-being of today’s kids are all being impacted, while high sugar versions damage their teeth and contribute to obesity.”
Approximately 100,000 children consume at least one high-caffeine energy drink daily. There is growing evidence linking these drinks to harmful effects on children, including disrupted sleep, increased anxiety, poor concentration, and reduced educational outcomes.
Research highlights that up to one-third of children aged 13 to 16 years, and nearly a quarter of children aged 11 to 12 years, consume one or more of these drinks each week, so early intervention is crucial if we are to deliver on our pledge to create the healthiest generation of children ever.
This is backed by parents, teachers, and teaching unions who report on pupils being unable to concentrate and focus, which can even negatively affect grades and academic performance. Evidence also shows that children from more deprived communities are more likely to consume these products, further contributing to health inequalities across the country.
