The UK plans to ban sales of high-caffeine energy drinks to under-16s, citing health concerns and following similar moves in other European countries.
The British government on Wednesday announced plans to ban the sale of high-caffeine energy drinks to children under 16, citing health risks including obesity, anxiety, and poor classroom concentration.
The Department of Health said the restriction would apply to drinks containing more than 150 milligrams of caffeine per liter, with sales prohibited across shops, cafes, restaurants, vending machines, and online platforms. Tea, coffee, and lower-caffeine beverages would not be affected.
The proposal has entered a 12-week consultation with industry leaders and health experts and is widely expected to pass Parliament.
“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,” Health Secretary Wes Streeting said.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer defended the move against criticism of overregulation, writing: “We’re stopping shops from selling high-caffeine energy drinks to under 16s, so they can turn up to school ready to learn.”
The British Soft Drinks Association said its members already voluntarily restrict sales, while health groups welcomed the measure as overdue. Similar bans already exist in Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland.