Could England Put an End to the Energy Drink Craze for Kids?
On August 30, 2018, the British government dropped a bombshell that might make parents everywhere sigh in relief.
Energy drinks – those caffeinated, sugar‑laden potions that look like a neon explosion – could soon be off the shelves for anyone under the age of 18 in England.
Why the Fuss?
These drinks are notorious for pumping up kids with:
- High caffeine loads (up to 150 mg per litre)
- A big hit of sugar that can lead to obesity
- All the other side‑effects that health officials warn against
Prime Minister Theresa May pointed out that thousands of youngsters are treating energy drinks like a daily snack – partly because they’re cheaper than ordinary soft drinks.
Teen Energy‑Drink Stats
- Brits gulp about 50 % more energy drinks than their European neighbors.
- Retailers in the UK are already stepping in: many ban sales to anyone under 16.
What’s Next?
The government is kicking off a public consultation to:
- Decide exactly at what age the ban should kick in.
- Ask for fresh ideas on how best to implement it.
Keep in mind: the proposed ban is an England‑only measure. Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland can keep doing whatever they like.
Already in Action?
In April of the same year, a separate sugar tax hit all UK soft drinks. Energy drinks are now on the front burner next.
