The government is to ban the sale of high-caffeine energy drinks to under-16s in England from April 2027.

It’s estimated around 100,000 children in England drink energy drinks high in caffeine every day, with evidence suggesting that this can negatively impact their physical and mental health, as well as their education.

Children living in more deprived areas and households are more likely to consume these drinks.

The announcement follows a consultation which received nearly 1,100 responses from businesses, public health organisations, enforcement bodies and members of the public. Feedback indicated strong support.

The legislation will apply to drinks containing more than 150mg of caffeine per litre, excluding tea and coffee. It will apply to all retail settings including shops, vending machines and websites and online.

Retails will be responsible for ensuring the drinks are not sold to under 16s and it will be enforced by local authorities. Those breaking the law will face fines of up to £2,500.

Public Health Minister, Sharon Hodgson, said: "High-caffeine energy drinks have no place in children’s hands. We know thousands of kids in England consume them daily but the evidence is clear that this can cause anxiety, affect their sleep and concentration and can have a detrimental impact on their education.

"This ban will reduce children’s opportunity to buy drinks that are harmful to their health and wellbeing, and demonstrates our firm commitment to creating the healthiest generation of children ever."

Education Minister, Olivia Bailey, said: "This ban will protect children from high-caffeine energy drinks that undermine their health and focus in the classroom, so they can make the most of all the exciting opportunities ahead of them.

"It will go hand in hand with our overhaul of school food for the first time in over a decade, to ensure children across the country have delicious, nutritious food that helps them thrive."