Hey fam, big news ⚡️ England is set to ban the sale of high-caffeine energy drinks like Red Bull to anyone under 16. The UK health minister says this move will help "build the foundations for healthier and happier generations to come."
According to the government, up to a third of 13- to 16-year-olds in England down these energy boosters – some pack more caffeine than two cups of coffee ☕☕. Health minister Wes Streeting warned, "How can we expect children to do well at school if they have the equivalent of a double espresso in their system on a daily basis?" 😮
A 12-week consultation is kicking off to gather feedback from experts, parents, shop owners and even the brands themselves. Right now, any drink with over 150mg of caffeine per liter needs a warning label, but this ban would be the first of its kind.
Streeting also flagged that energy drinks can mess with sleep 😴, concentration and general wellbeing. Plus, the high-sugar versions can damage teeth and add to obesity concerns – problems many families in South Asia know all too well during exam season when teens pull all-nighters.
Next steps? The consultation runs for 3 months. If all goes ahead, retailers will need to check IDs at the till, and teens might have to swap their fizzy energy fix for healthier options like coconut water 🥥 or a good old cup of green tea 🍵.
What do you think? Drop your thoughts below and share with your crew! 👇
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
