The UK government wants to prevent children from drinking energy drinks

The UK government wants to prevent children under the age of 16 in England from drinking energy drinks. The government is planning a new law in England to stop anyone under the age of 16 buying energy drinks such as Red Bull, Monster and Prime from shops, restaurants, cafes, vending machines and online.

According to ministers and doctors, a ban could prevent obesity in up to 40,000 children, as well as help stop sleep disruption, increased anxiety, and difficulty concentrating. Up to a third of UK children are thought to consume these types of drinks every week, despite most supermarkets having already introduced a voluntary ban. Some popular drinks contain more caffeine than two cups of coffee.