04.09.2025 03:54
The UK is preparing a comprehensive ban on energy drinks, citing concerns for children's health. The sale of these high-caffeine products, which are also sold in Turkey, will be prohibited in all areas, including supermarkets, websites, restaurants, and vending machines, for those under the age of 16.
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The UK government is taking action against energy drinks, which have become quite common among children due to increasing health concerns in recent years.
BAN ON THE SALE OF ENERGY DRINKS TO UNDER 16s
The sale of these high-caffeine beverages, which are frequently consumed among young people, especially those interested in sports, will be completely banned for those under 16. The banned drinks will include those containing more than 150 milligrams of caffeine per liter and typically carry warnings on their packaging stating "not recommended for children." Drinks with lower caffeine content, such as cola, tea, and coffee, will be excluded from the ban.
ONLINE SALES WILL ALSO BE BANNED
According to the new regulation, the ban will not only cover supermarkets but also online sales platforms, restaurants, cafes, and vending machines. Thus, the sale of high-caffeine energy drinks to individuals under 16 will not be possible in any way.
SUPERMARKETS HAD ALREADY TAKEN STEPS
Some large retail chains had previously voluntarily decided to stop selling energy drinks to children. However, this practice is not applicable in all supermarkets. It is still known that children can easily access these products at some sales points.
CONSUMPTION FIGURES ARE ASTOUNDING
The new regulation aims to reduce health problems such as sleep issues, attention deficit, anxiety disorders, and obesity in children. According to data from the UK Department of Health, this step could prevent approximately 40,000 children from becoming obese, while positively affecting the educational success and overall quality of life of hundreds of thousands of children.
It is reported that around 100,000 children in the UK consume at least one energy drink every day. One-third of young people aged 13-16 drink these beverages at least once a week. Health and Social Care Minister Wes Streeting criticized this habit, stating, "If children are getting the equivalent of a couple of espressos worth of caffeine every day, we can't expect them to succeed in school."
RESEARCH HAS REVEALED THE HARMS
A study conducted on 1.2 million children and young people in 2024 found that energy drink consumption is linked to headaches, restlessness, chronic fatigue, and a significant decline in sleep quality. Additionally, an increase in psychological issues such as stress, depression, and anxiety was observed.
Professor Amelia Lake, one of the researchers speaking on the subject, emphasized that these drinks have no place in children's diets, while the government states that the ban will not only benefit children's health but also provide significant contributions to the country's economy in the long run.
WHAT ABOUT THE SITUATION IN TURKEY?
Many energy drink brands sold in Turkey are also being evaluated within this scope. It is anticipated that the decision made in the UK may pave the way for similar practices in other European countries and Turkey in the future.
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