Energy drinks containing more than 150mg of caffeine per litre will be banned for sale to anyone under 16 across England. Health Secretary Wes Streeting announced the sweeping restrictions that will apply to all retailers including shops, restaurants, cafes, vending machines and online platforms.
The government claims the policy could prevent obesity in up to 40,000 children while tackling disrupted sleep, increased anxiety and poor concentration in schools. Popular brands affected include Prime, Red Bull, Monster and Relentless.
Around 100,000 children currently consume at least one high-caffeine energy drink daily. Major supermarket chains have already voluntarily stopped selling these products to under-16s, but smaller corner shops continue the practice.
Health claims challenged
Streeting said: "How can we expect children to do well at school if they have the equivalent of a double espresso in their system on a daily basis? Energy drinks might seem harmless, but the sleep, concentration and wellbeing of today's kids are all being impacted while high sugar versions damage their teeth and contribute to obesity."
However, nutrition experts have questioned the obesity prevention claims. Tom Sanders, emeritus Professor of nutrition and dietetics at King's College London, argues the policy is based on confusion between caffeine content and calories, stating that caffeine does not promote weight gain.
International precedent
According to Metro, several European countries have already implemented similar restrictions. Lithuania and Latvia banned sales to under-18s, while Sweden restricts sales to under-15s, with Prime Energy containing 420mg of caffeine per litre compared to Red Bull and Monster at 320mg per litre.
The government will launch a 12-week consultation to gather evidence from retailers, manufacturers, enforcement leaders, health and education experts, and the public. Drinks with more than 150mg of caffeine per litre already carry mandatory warning labels stating they are not recommended for children.
Political history
GBNews reports the measures were originally proposed seven years ago by then-Prime Minister Theresa May but were scrapped in 2019 when Sajid Javid dismissed them as "nanny state" policies.
Sources used: "GBNews", "Metro", "Daily Star", "Northern Echo", "Yorkshire" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
