The UK government announced on Wednesday that it will consult on banning the sale of high-caffeine energy drinks to consumers under the age of 16 due to negative impacts on children’s physical and mental health.
The government said that there is growing evidence linking energy drinks to harmful effects on children, including disrupted sleep, increased anxiety, poor concentration, and reduced educational outcomes.
The proposal would make it illegal to sell high-caffeine energy drinks containing more than 150 mg of caffeine per liter to anyone aged under 16 years across all retailers, including online, in shops, restaurants, cafes, and vending machines. The proposals would not affect lower-caffeine soft drinks nor tea and coffee. While many major retailers already voluntarily restrict sales, research cited by the government suggests some smaller convenience stores continue selling to children, which was said to highlight the need for a consistent approach that protects children and is fairer for industry.
The ban could impact energy drink sellers in the UK such as Red Bull Gmbh, Monster Beverage (NASDAQ:MNST), Suntory Holdings (OTCPK:STBFY) (OTCPK:STBFF), Coca-Cola Company (KO), PepsiCo (NASDAQ:PEP), A.G. Barr (OTCPK:BAGFF), and Carabao Tawandang Co Ltd.