The UK government is set to ban the sale of energy drinks to children under the age of 16.
Co-Op, Tesco and other big retailers already refuse to sell such beverages to children but it is still not yet against the law.
In a leaked letter seen by The Sun, it seems the Health Secretary Matt Hancock will introduce the ban on energy drinks to children under 16s.
The letter reads in part: “Following a high level of interest in the consultation, we plan on announcing that we will be ending the sale of energy drinks to children under the age of 16.”
According to the report, the letter went on and said he is “taking a precautionary approach to mitigate the potential negative effects associated with their excessive consumption by children.”
The announcement will come after a Department of Health consultation observed the effects of energy drinks, such as Monster and Red Bull, on kids.
James Oliver, who has previously spoken about energy drinks and children, told the Sun last year: “We have a massive problem with kids and energy drinks.
“Too many children are regularly using them to replace breakfast. Teachers from across the country have told me how their lessons are disrupted in classrooms because of these drinks, packed with stimulants.
“The energy drinks industry has never thought these products were suitable for children.
“They even say ‘not for children’ on the labels! The sale to kids should be stopped as soon as possible.
“It’s really great news that the government is announcing their intention to stop selling these drinks to kids.
“I’m sure parents and health experts across the UK will happily tell the government this is the right thing to do.”
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