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The British government announced on July 16 (local time) that it will prohibit the sale of high-caffeine energy drinks to children and adolescents under the age of 16 in England, starting next April.
According to Reuters, the ban, which will be implemented following parliamentary approval, will apply to sales in stores, vending machines, and online.
The regulation applies to drinks with a caffeine content exceeding 150 mg per liter (L).
The government explained that approximately 100,000 children in England consume such drinks daily, and that research suggests the intake of high-caffeine beverages can lead to sleep disorders, anxiety, and reduced concentration.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who is expected to step down on July 20 and hand over the premiership to fellow Labour Party member Andy Burnham, has announced a series of regulatory measures in recent months aimed at protecting children and adolescents.
Previously, the Starmer administration announced plans to ban social media use for those under 16 and to set default nighttime usage restrictions for 16- and 17-year-olds, explaining that such measures would be beneficial for the health, sleep, and well-being of children and adolescents.
(Photo: Getty Images)
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