Government targets children’s health
The government has unveiled plans to ban the sale of high-caffeine energy drinks to under-16s, citing growing evidence that the products damage children’s health, sleep and learning.
Evidence of harm
Ministers say around 100,000 children consume at least one high-caffeine energy drink every day. Studies link the drinks to anxiety, disrupted sleep, poor concentration and reduced academic performance. Some cans contain the caffeine equivalent of four cans of cola, with added sugar increasing risks of tooth decay and obesity.
The Department of Health and Social Care believes the ban could prevent obesity in up to 40,000 children and deliver long-term health benefits worth tens of millions of pounds.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting said: “Energy drinks might seem harmless, but the sleep, concentration and wellbeing of today’s kids are all being impacted. By preventing shops from selling these drinks to kids, we’re helping build the foundations for healthier and happier generations to come.”
Consultation launched
The consultation, running for 12 weeks, will gather evidence from health experts, schools, retailers and the public on how to deliver the ban. The proposal would make it illegal to sell drinks containing more than 150mg of caffeine per litre to anyone under 16. It would apply across shops, restaurants, cafés, vending machines and online.
Major supermarkets already restrict sales, but research suggests many convenience stores do not, prompting calls for a consistent national approach.
Education sector backing
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson linked the move to classroom standards, saying: “This government inherited a scourge of poor behaviour that undermines learning – partly driven by caffeine-loaded drinks. Today’s announcement is another step forward in addressing that legacy.”
Teachers and unions have long complained about the impact of energy drinks on behaviour and attainment. Paul Whiteman, general secretary of the NAHT, said: “Anything which addresses this and helps pupils to focus on their learning has to be welcome.”
Parental concerns
Parents and campaigners also welcomed the move. Carrera, a Bite Back youth activist, described energy drinks as “the social currency of the playground” and said the ban was “a step in the right direction.”
Lauren Morley, a parent and educator from Worthing, said she had seen pupils suffer panic attacks and poor focus after consuming multiple cans instead of breakfast. “When young people stop drinking them, their wellbeing, concentration and mood noticeably improve,” she added.
If approved, the restrictions would bring the UK in line with countries such as Norway, which will introduce its own ban in 2026.
