Government confirm under-16s energy drinks ban to go ahead
Today the government have published their response to the proposed ban of sales of high-caffeine energy drinks to under 16-year-olds, confirming the regulation will go ahead.
The ban will come into force in April 2027 and will apply to shops, vending machines and online stores, with the legislation covering all drinks containing more than 150mg of caffeine per litre, excluding tea and coffee.
Responsibility for ensuring drinks are not sold to children under 16 will lie with the retailers themselves, and local authorities will be able to enforce the ban and issue non-compliance fines of up to £2,500.
News of the ban is welcomed, as only last month government faced scrutiny over their stalling and inaction surrounding the proposals. Launched as a consultation in September 2025, last month marked 700 days since the government's initial commitment to a ban – in that time an estimated 280 million energy drinks have been consumed by children and the energy drinks market has dominated.
Longstanding evidence shows that these high-caffeine, high-sugar energy drinks have a poor impact on mental and physical health, notably linking to anxiety, disrupted sleep and poor concentration alongside increased tooth decay and high blood pressure risk. The ban therefore holds potential to improve multiple areas of children's health and positively impact those living in more deprived areas who typically consume a higher amount of energy drinks.
Commenting on the announcement, Dr Kawther Hashem, Head of Research and Impact says:
“We welcome the publication of the Government's response to the consultation and its commitment to ban the sale of high-caffeine energy drinks to under-16s, but what children need now is action, not more waiting.
These drinks are packed with caffeine and sugar, a combination that can disrupt sleep, affect concentration and behaviour, and contribute to poor physical and mental health. Frequent consumption also increases the risk of tooth decay and excess weight, leading to health problems that can last well into adulthood.
It is now essential that the Government moves swiftly to implement the legislation and ensures it is backed by strong enforcement. The rules must apply consistently across all retailers, including convenience stores, supermarkets and online sales, creating a level playing field for businesses while giving parents confidence that children are protected wherever they shop. This is an important public health measure which now needs to be delivered.”
Read the full consultation response on the government website.
