The UK government has announced plans to ban the sale of high-caffeine energy drinks to anyone under 16 in England, targeting health issues like obesity, sleep problems, and poor concentration in schools. This move, part of Labour’s election manifesto, will prohibit sales in shops, cafes, restaurants, and online, with a consultation period ahead.
Energy drinks containing more than 150mg of caffeine per litre, such as Red Bull, Monster, and Prime, will be affected by the ban. For example, a standard 250ml can of Red Bull has 80mg of caffeine, equivalent to a double espresso, which can disrupt children’s developing bodies and minds. Health experts warn that excessive consumption leads to headaches, sleep disturbances, and in rare cases, cardiac issues or seizures, while sugary versions contribute to dental decay and weight gain.
Up to a third of UK children are estimated to consume these drinks weekly, despite a voluntary ban by major supermarkets since 2018. The new law aims to ensure uniform compliance across all retailers, including smaller stores that still sell to minors. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson highlighted that caffeine-loaded drinks exacerbate poor classroom behavior, with teachers reporting students as hyperactive and unable to focus after intake.
The ban will be enforced under the Food Safety Act 1990, with a 12-week consultation to gather input from health professionals, educators, and the industry. Health Secretary Wes Streeting emphasized that personal responsibility applies to adults, but children need protection, citing the success of age restrictions on alcohol and tobacco. The government aims to implement the ban sooner than the end of the current parliament.
Industry response is cautious; the British Soft Drinks Association notes that manufacturers already self-regulate by not marketing to minors and including warning labels, urging evidence-based regulation. In contrast, health groups like the Obesity Health Alliance and dental associations support the ban but call for it to include low-sugar options to address tooth decay more comprehensively.
Enforcement will fall to trading standards officers, and similar bans are being considered in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. This policy reflects a broader public health strategy, addressing modern challenges like social media advertising that targets youth through influencers and appealing packaging.
The move is welcomed by experts such as Prof. Steve Turner of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, who sees it as a logical step toward healthier diets for children. It aligns with global trends and recommendations, aiming to create a safer environment for the next generation amid growing awareness of energy drinks’ harms.
