Spain's Ministry of Consumption has announced that it will implement new regulations to prohibit the sale of energy drinks to individuals younger than 16 and impose an 18-year age limit on those containing high levels of caffeine. This decision comes amidst growing concerns regarding the health effects of energy drinks on young consumers, particularly given that nearly 40% of students aged 14 to 18 have reported consuming these beverages within the last month. The increase in energy drink sales, which rose by 38.7% over the past four years, has prompted officials to take action to protect minors from potential health risks associated with these products.

The initiative highlights the increasing awareness of the adverse effects of energy drinks, which can include insomnia, anxiety, and tachycardia, similar to the well-understood risks of alcohol consumption. The Ministry of Health’s Encuesta Estudes 2025 survey indicates a troubling trend in caffeine consumption among young people, prompting the government to take preventive measures. The restrictions aim to reduce accessibility to these drinks for minors, aligning regulations more closely with existing laws on alcohol consumption, which are widely accepted for their protective nature.

Overall, this regulatory change signals a developing recognition of the specific challenges posed by energy drinks in contemporary youth culture. By implementing these age restrictions, the Ministry of Consumption is taking a significant step towards enhancing public health among younger populations in Spain while addressing a growing concern regarding the commercialization and normalization of energy drink consumption among minors.