The UK government is moving forward with plans to introduce a new law banning the sale of energy drinks to children under the age of 16 in England. The proposal, announced by Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting, is aimed at protecting young people from the potential health risks linked to excessive caffeine and sugar consumption.
Energy drinks such as Red Bull, Monster and Prime have become increasingly popular among teenagers, but many contain more caffeine than two cups of coffee in a single serving. According to official estimates, up to one-third of UK children consume these drinks each week, despite voluntary bans already in place at most major supermarkets.
Streeting said the government was acting “head on” in response to growing concerns from parents and teachers about the impact of these drinks on children’s behaviour and health. “We know parents worry about the effects of these high-caffeine products, and teachers report classroom disruption. This law is about protecting children’s wellbeing,” he said.
A 12-week consultation has now been launched to gather evidence from public health experts, educators, retailers and manufacturers. The consultation will also allow the public to share their views before the policy is finalised. Lower-caffeine soft drinks, including Diet Coke, as well as tea and coffee, will not be affected by the proposed ban.
Celebrity chef Jamie Oliver, who has long campaigned for stricter regulation, welcomed the move. Last year, he posted a video warning that energy drinks were fuelling behavioural issues in schools. “We are talking about three, four shots of espresso in one of these things. Loads of sugar. An absolute nightmare,” Oliver said, describing children arriving at school “bouncing off the walls” after consuming energy drinks for breakfast.
Medical experts have warned that high levels of caffeine can have serious consequences for young people. Side effects of excessive consumption include headaches, sleep disruption, rapid heart rate, and in severe cases, abnormal heart rhythms and seizures. Although rare, deaths linked to extreme caffeine intake have also been reported worldwide.
Under current UK labelling rules, any drink with more than 150mg of caffeine per litre must carry a warning label stating it is not recommended for children, pregnant or breastfeeding women. However, these labels have not deterred consumption among teenagers, many of whom are attracted by the branding and affordability of energy drinks.
Health experts note that young people are particularly vulnerable to the risks of caffeine. Children have smaller bodies and developing brains, making them more sensitive to its stimulating effects. For comparison, most adults can safely consume up to 400mg of caffeine daily, the equivalent of about four cups of coffee.
If the new law is implemented, the sale of energy drinks to anyone under 16 would be prohibited in shops, cafes, restaurants, vending machines and online platforms. Retailers failing to comply could face penalties.
The government hopes the measure will reduce long-term health risks and improve classroom behaviour, reinforcing wider efforts to address childhood health and wellbeing in the UK.
