UK To Ban Sale of High-Caffeine Energy Drinks to Under-16s

The UK government will make it illegal to sell energy drinks containing more than 150mg of caffeine per litre to anyone under 16, in a move aimed at tackling obesity and improving concentration in schools. The ban will cover sales online, in shops, restaurants, cafes, and vending machines across England.

Lower-caffeine soft drinks such as Coca‑Cola, Coca‑Cola Zero, Diet Coke, and Pepsi will not be affected, nor will tea and coffee. However, brands like Red Bull, Monster, Relentless, and Prime exceed the limit and will be banned for sale to children.

Around 100,000 children are estimated to consume at least one high-caffeine energy drink daily. Ministers say the ban could prevent obesity in up to 40,000 children and reduce disrupted sleep, anxiety, concentration issues, and poor school performance.

Katharine Jenner, director of the Obesity Health Alliance, said: ‘High-caffeine energy drinks have no place in children’s hands. This is a common-sense, evidence-based step to protect children’s physical, mental, and dental health. Age-of-sale policies like this have a proven record of reducing access to products that are not suitable for children and will help create an environment that supports healthier choices for future generations.’

Major supermarkets, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Waitrose, Morrisons, and Asda, have already stopped selling the drinks to youngsters, though research suggests some smaller convenience stores still do.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting added: ‘How can we expect children to do well at school if they have the equivalent of a double espresso in their system daily? Energy drinks might seem harmless, but the sleep, concentration, and wellbeing of today’s kids are being affected, while high sugar versions damage teeth and contribute to obesity. By preventing shops from selling these drinks to kids, we’re helping build the foundations for healthier and happier generations to come.’