Energy drinks containing more than 150mg of caffeine per litre are to be banned for sale to anyone under 16.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting announced the restrictions that will apply to all retailers including shops, restaurants, cafes, vending machines and online platforms.
It is believed the policy could prevent obesity in up to 40,000 children while tackling issues such as disrupted sleep, increased anxiety and poor concentration in schools.
Around 100,000 children are thought to consume at least one high-caffeine energy drink daily. Major supermarket chains have already voluntarily stopped selling such products to under-16s, but some smaller corner shops continue to do so.
Streeting said: "How can we expect children to do well at school if they have the equivalent of a double espresso in their system on a daily basis?
"Energy drinks might seem harmless, but the sleep, concentration and wellbeing of today's kids are all being impacted while high sugar versions damage their teeth and contribute to obesity."
Tom Sanders, an emeritus Professor of nutrition and dietetics at King's College London, said: "There seems to be some confusion regarding the term 'high-energy' drinks with drinks that are high in food energy [calories].
"Consequently, the claim that this ban will reduce obesity in 40,000 children seems scientifically unfounded.
"Caffeine certainly does not promote weight gain, and the published scientific evidence is in the opposite direction."
Sources used: "GBNews", "Metro", "Daily Star", "Northern Echo", "Yorkshire" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
