AQW 50869/22-27 Written question to the Minister of Health

To ask the Minister of Health to detail any discussions he has had with Executive colleagues in relation to banning or restricting the sale of energy drinks to under 16s, given a similar commitment was made by the UK Government to apply to England.

Asked by Paula Bradshaw MLA on 3 September 2026

  • Answered
  • Written
  • After due date
Tabled
3 September 2026
Answer due by
18 September 2026
Answered
27 September 202624 days after tabling
Department
Department of Health
Priority question
No

Answer

Food information legislation requires specific labelling for high caffeine drinks and foods where caffeine has been added for a physiological effect. Based on current scientific opinions on the safety of caffeine, the FSA advises that children, or other people sensitive to caffeine, should only consume caffeine in moderation.

It is noted that the UK government have made a commitment to ban or restrict the sale of energy drinks. At this time my Department has no plans to introduce a ban on energy drinks.

Official sources