England to ban energy drink sales to under-16s

England is set to implement a ban on the sale of energy drinks to minors, prohibiting sales to anyone under the age of 16. This legislative move, announced by the government, aims to curb the consumption of high-caffeine beverages among young people.

The new law will come into effect in April 2027. It specifically applies to drinks that contain a caffeine concentration exceeding 150 milligrams per liter. This threshold is considered significant and is associated with the potential health risks linked to excessive energy drink consumption in adolescents.

While the specific health concerns are not detailed in the announcement, such measures typically address issues like sleep disturbances, anxiety, and potential cardiovascular effects associated with high caffeine intake in developing bodies. The government's decision reflects a growing concern over the marketing and accessibility of these potent beverages to a vulnerable age group.