Under-16s Energy Drinks Ban

Baroness Bull Excerpts

Tuesday 10th February 2026 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Merron (Lab)]

We were glad to introduce the voluntary measures. To be proportionate and evidence-based, they will in the first instance be voluntary. We will review along the way how we are getting on and whether there is a need for statutory action, as the noble Baroness asks.

[Baroness Bull (CB)]

My Lords, the noble Baroness’s Answer referred to obesity. There is a risk of obesity from these high-sugar drinks, but caffeine is perhaps the bigger danger, particularly for smaller bodies, which cannot deal with the excessive caffeine. Are the Government monitoring the use of caffeine pouches that are now available, which are inserted between the gum and the lip to give a hit of caffeine, which can be dangerous for young people?

[Baroness Merron (Lab)]

I actually do not know the answer to that, so I cannot confirm it is the case, but I will certainly look into it. I take the noble Baroness’s point about caffeine. That is the problem here, but it is also right that we consider sugar intake.