The British government announced on Thursday that it will ban the sale of high-caffeine energy drinks to children under the age of 16 in England. The policy is scheduled to take effect in April 2025 and applies to retailers, vending machines, and online marketplaces.
The ban targets beverages containing more than 150 milligrams of caffeine per litre. Implementation of the new regulation remains subject to parliamentary approval. According to government data, approximately 100,000 children in England consume energy drinks daily.
Ministers cited health concerns as the primary reason for the restriction, noting evidence that links high caffeine intake in minors to sleep disruption, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating. The measure follows other proposed government restrictions aimed at youth, including limits on social media use for those under 16.