A comprehensive review of evidence on energy drinks has prompted renewed calls for a UK-wide ban on their sale to children and young people. The study, led by Dr Amelia Lake of Teesside University, analysed 57 studies involving over one million children from 21 countries, linking the drinks to anxiety, stress, and suicidal thoughts.
The research found that regular consumption of energy drinks is associated with increased risks of drug use, violence, unsafe sex, sleep problems, poor academic performance, and unhealthy diet. Boys are more likely than girls to consume these drinks, which often contain high levels of caffeine and sugar.
In a letter to Health Secretary Victoria Atkins, 40 health organisations reiterated calls for stricter restrictions, noting that some cans contain 160-200mg of caffeine—double the amount in an average cup of coffee. Current voluntary bans by major supermarkets do not cover smaller shops, online retailers, or vending machines.
Dr Lake stated: 'The evidence is clear that energy drinks are harmful to the mental and physical health of children and young people, as well as their behaviour and education. We need to take action now to protect them from these risks.'
Official guidance recommends no more than 3mg of caffeine per kilogram of body weight, a limit easily exceeded with a single large can. The high sugar content also contributes to tooth decay and obesity. Countries such as Latvia and Lithuania have already implemented bans, while England and Scotland consulted on similar measures in 2019.
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: 'We consulted on a proposal to end the sale of energy drinks to children under 16 in England, and will set out our full response in due course.'
