The Czech government is moving to ban the sale of high-caffeine energy drinks to children under 15, aiming to protect them from the potential health risks of these beverages
. On November 13, the cabinet approved the proposal, but it still requires approval from the legislative chambers, where the governing coalition holds a majority. Agriculture Minister Marek Výborný acknowledged the absence of a clear legal definition for energy drinks and suggested expanding the legislation to cover other harmful substances in food. However, this could lead to challenges at the European Union level, where regulations on such products remain limited.
Several European countries, including Belgium, Denmark, and the Netherlands, have already prohibited the sale of energy drinks like Prime Energy due to their high caffeine content. However, these drinks remain available in other EU nations and online.
An explanatory memorandum highlighted growing health concerns in the Czech Republic, particularly among children, citing the rise in obesity, high blood pressure, anxiety, and sleep disorders linked to sugary and caffeinated beverages. The proposed ban would also extend to schools, medical facilities, child welfare centers, and children’s events, where such drinks would no longer be available. Additionally, new regulations may require age verification for purchases and restrict advertising targeting minors or promoting overconsumption.
Critics of the proposal, including the Czech Association of Soft Drink Manufacturers, argue that the ban is unscientific and advocate for better education instead. Veronika Jakubcová, the association’s head, pointed out that black tea and coffee are more significant caffeine sources than energy drinks and emphasized moderation over prohibition. “Alcohol is regulated by law, and minors still consume it,” she noted, adding that energy drinks have been on the market for over 25 years without conclusive evidence of harm.
Energy drinks remain highly popular among Czech youth, with 20% of schoolchildren aged 11 to 15 reportedly consuming them weekly—a figure that has doubled since 2018. Social media influencers have contributed to their status as a symbol of coolness among young people. Studies also suggest that children who neglect school or spend excessive time on gaming and the internet are significantly more likely to consume energy drinks than their peers with balanced lifestyles.
