Starting this April, children under the age of 16 in England will be barred from purchasing energy drinks with high caffeine levels. The legislation prohibits the sale of beverages containing more than 150mg of caffeine per litre in various outlets, including shops, restaurants, cafes, and online stores. While common soft drinks, coffee, and tea remain unaffected, major brands such as Red Bull, Monster, Relentless, and Prime will be subject to the new age restrictions.
Public Health Minister Sharon Hodgson stated that the initiative aims to improve children’s health by addressing issues like obesity, sleep disruption, anxiety, and diminished school performance. Approximately 100,000 children in England consume these beverages daily. Health experts emphasize that young people are particularly vulnerable to the effects of excess caffeine due to their smaller stature and ongoing brain development, noting that high intake can trigger headaches, rapid heart rates, and in severe cases, seizures.
The policy will be enforced by local authorities, with businesses facing potential fines of up to £2,500 for violations. The decision follows a public consultation that received strong support for age-based restrictions. While the Obesity Health Alliance has welcomed the move as a common-sense measure, the British Soft Drinks Association has criticized the ban, arguing it is unnecessary given that members already avoid marketing these products to minors and include advisory labels on packaging. Similar measures are currently being evaluated by governments in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
