Starting April 2027, children under the age of 16 in England will be prohibited from purchasing high-caffeine energy drinks in supermarkets and all other retail locations. This new legislation targets drinks—other than tea or coffee—that contain more than 150mg of caffeine per litre. The ban applies universally across shops, vending machines, physical stores, and online platforms, excluding business-to-business transactions.
Public Health Minister Sharon Hodgson emphasized the negative health impacts of such drinks on children, noting that daily consumption can lead to anxiety, sleep disturbances, reduced concentration, and adverse effects on education. “High-caffeine energy drinks have no place in children’s hands,” Hodgson stated, underscoring the government’s commitment to fostering a healthier generation.
Education Minister Olivia Bailey highlighted how the ban complements ongoing reforms in school food provision to ensure children receive nutritious meals that support their wellbeing and academic success.
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The government’s consultation on this ban, conducted from September to November 2025, attracted strong public support with 1,095 responses. Health advocates, including Katharine Jenner from the Obesity Health Alliance, have praised the policy as an essential step to protect youngsters, particularly those in disadvantaged communities disproportionately affected by such products. Jenner stressed that consistent enforcement across various sales channels is crucial for the policy’s success.
Barbara Crowther from Sustain’s Children’s Food Campaign echoed these sentiments, urging a swift parliamentary process to enact the legislation by the April 2027 deadline. She highlighted the urgency by pointing out the staggering rise in sales—almost 300 million more high-caffeine energy drinks have been sold to children since the government’s initial pledge two years ago.
This legislation marks a significant commitment to public health, aiming to shield children from the risks associated with high caffeine intake and promote healthier lifestyle choices nationwide.