UK government bans energy drink sales to under-16s in England, aiming to improve children’s health and focus in schools
UK government bans energy drink sales to under-16s, marking a significant health-driven policy shift announced by Health Secretary Wes Streeting.
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This decision, unveiled on Wednesday, targets the alarming consumption rates among young teens.
Streeting emphasized the bold step is part of a broader effort to support healthier lifestyles and academic performance among youth.
“By stopping children from buying these drinks, we’re laying the groundwork for healthier and happier generations,” he said.
Government data shows that nearly one in three teens aged 13 to 16 regularly consume high-caffeine energy drinks.
Many of these beverages contain more caffeine than two cups of coffee, raising serious concerns among health experts, teachers, and parents alike.
“How can we expect pupils to thrive in the classroom if they’re running on the equivalent of a double espresso every day?” Streeting asked, referencing the link between excess caffeine intake and concentration issues in adolescents.
While major UK supermarkets like Tesco and Sainsbury’s already follow voluntary restrictions, the new measure would enshrine the ban into law, creating uniform enforcement across England.
The proposed law would apply to well-known brands such as Red Bull, Monster, and Rockstar, ensuring that no minor under 16 can legally purchase them.
The ban is part of a wider strategy to tackle the root causes of poor health and educational struggles, Streeting said.
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He credited the move to mounting pressure from concerned parents and teaching unions, some of whom have called for energy drinks to be banned entirely from school grounds.
Source: Read more at thecable.ng
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
