England to Ban High-Caffeine Energy Drinks Sales to Under-16s from April 2027

England will prohibit the sale of energy drinks containing more than 150 milligrams of caffeine per litre to anyone under 16 from April 2027. The restriction covers popular brands including Red Bull, Monster, Relentless and Prime while leaving tea, coffee and lower-caffeine drinks such as Diet Coke unaffected.

GB News reported that the policy follows a government announcement this week and will be implemented through secondary legislation under the Food Safety Act 1990.

Local authorities will enforce the rules across shops, restaurants, cafés, vending machines and online platforms, with retailers facing fines of up to £2,500 for violations. Approximately 100,000 children in England consume such drinks daily, according to government figures cited by GB News.

The ban stems from a consultation that received nearly 1,100 responses and showed strong public support for age limits.

Public Health Minister Sharon Hodgson stated the measure demonstrates a commitment to creating the healthiest generation of children ever. Katharine Jenner of the Obesity Health Alliance called the restriction common sense at a vital time in children's lives.

The British Soft Drinks Association described the ban as unnecessary, noting that members have voluntarily avoided marketing to under-16s since 2010 and already label products as not recommended for children.

The previous Conservative government considered but dropped similar restrictions in 2022. Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales are each examining comparable measures. In Ireland the Department of Health is awaiting an evidence review from Safefood expected in the coming months before deciding on any action, GB News and thejournal.ie reported.