UK Government Plans Ban on High-Caffeine Energy Drinks for Under-16s

The UK government has proposed a ban on the sale of high-caffeine energy drinks containing more than 150mg of caffeine per litre to children under 16, aiming to protect their physical and mental health, reduce obesity, and improve educational outcomes. This ban, which would apply across all retail and online platforms, targets popular brands such as Red Bull, Monster, Relentless, and Prime, while not affecting lower-caffeine soft drinks or tea and coffee. Around 100,000 children are estimated to consume at least one high-caffeine energy drink daily, with evidence linking these drinks to disrupted sleep, increased anxiety, poor concentration, and dental damage due to high sugar content. The move has garnered support from health experts, parents, teachers, and organizations like the Obesity Health Alliance, emphasizing the importance of early intervention to create healthier future generations. The government’s Plan for Change highlights a shift from treatment to prevention, addressing concerns raised by parents and educators about the adverse effects on children's wellbeing and school performance. Major supermarkets have already restricted sales, but the new legislation aims to cover smaller retailers who continue to sell these drinks to minors.