England is making preparations to prohibit the sale of highly caffeinated energy drinks to individuals under 16. Some specialists are advocating for similar action in Canada or for stricter regulations on these beverages.
Dr. Olivier Drouin, a pediatrician at Montreal’s Sainte-Justine University Hospital Centre, suggests that Canada should also impose restrictions on selling these drinks to those under 16, emphasizing that the drinks offer no real advantages to teenagers and pose potential risks.
According to experts, the consumption of energy drinks among children is on the rise. British lawmakers have suggested a ban on the sale of energy drinks with at least 150 milligrams of caffeine per liter to individuals under 16. While many British retailers already limit sales to children, the proposed legislation would extend to businesses that have not implemented such restrictions and to vending machines easily accessible to children. Non-compliant businesses could face fines ranging from £1,500 to £2,500.
David Hammond, a researcher focusing on caffeine intake in Canadian youth, supports the idea and anticipates closely monitoring the effects of England’s decision on the health of young people. He believes that this move could set a precedent for other countries to follow.
Hammond, a professor at the University of Waterloo’s School of Public Health Sciences, points out that Canadian youth are consuming high levels of caffeine, which could be risky. Dr. Drouin notes a significant surge in teenagers consuming energy drinks daily, with some regions reporting a 20% increase over the past five years.
The potential health impacts of energy drinks on developing bodies remain uncertain due to the novelty of these beverages. Excessive caffeine intake can lead to issues like anxiety, heart irregularities, and sleep disturbances, especially for individuals with underlying heart conditions. Mixing caffeine with exercise or alcohol can further heighten these risks.
Health Canada asserts that there are already regulations in place for energy drinks, including labeling requirements cautioning against consumption by certain groups. Despite these measures, some experts argue that the current warnings may not be conspicuous enough to alert children to the dangers associated with energy drinks.
To further safeguard adolescents, Dr. Drouin suggests limiting marketing strategies that target children, particularly those associating the drinks with cartoons or sports. He hopes that England’s actions will inspire Canada to address the increasing use of energy drinks among minors, emphasizing the need for more proactive measures.