England to ban sales of energy drinks to under-16s, government announces

The UK government has announced plans to ban the sale of energy drinks to anyone under the age of 16 in England, saying the move is designed to protect children's health and learning.

The proposed restriction, unveiled by Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting, would bar sales of products such as Red Bull, Monster and Prime from shops, restaurants, cafes, vending machines and online platforms to under-16s. A 12-week public consultation will gather evidence to inform the detail of the policy.

Streeting said ministers had been urged to act by parents, teachers and children themselves. He told BBC Breakfast, "You can see the impact on the health, concentration and the learning, and that is why we are acting." The announcement comes after public health concerns about rising consumption of highly caffeinated and sugary drinks among young people.

Officials cited estimates that up to a third of UK children consume energy drinks each week. Some popular products contain more caffeine than two cups of coffee and, according to government advisers and health groups, excessive intake can cause headaches, sleep problems and a rapid heart rate. In rare cases, very high caffeine consumption has been linked to abnormal heart rhythms, seizures and death.

The Association of UK Dietitians has warned that sugary energy drinks can also damage teeth and contribute to obesity. Several major supermarket chains have already imposed voluntary bans on sales to under-16s, but ministers said a statutory prohibition is needed to ensure a consistent approach across retailers and out-of-home outlets.

The consultation will invite input from parents, teachers, industry representatives, public health bodies and other stakeholders on the proposed age limit, enforcement mechanisms and any exemptions. The government said it would use evidence gathered during the 12-week period to shape legislation and guidance for businesses.

Campaigners and some clinicians have welcomed the announcement as a step to reduce avoidable harms to children, while the drinks industry has expressed concern about restrictions and called for engagement during the consultation. The government did not set out a timetable for bringing legislation into force but said the consultation is the next formal step in developing the policy.

The plan in England follows growing international and domestic scrutiny of high-caffeine beverages for minors, and adds to a suite of measures aimed at improving child health that ministers have been pursuing, including efforts to tackle childhood obesity and improve nutrition in schools.