Prioritizing the health of children, the Department of Health and Family Welfare has taken a major decision to impose a statewide ban on the sale of caffeinated energy drinks to minors.
**Energy Drinks Being Sold to Children and Youth on a Large Scale**
According to the issued order, not only is the direct sale of energy drinks to children now prohibited, but their sale is also banned within school and college canteens, as well as in their immediate vicinity. Energy drinks cannot be sold within a radius of 100 meters from schools in rural areas and 50 meters in urban areas. In its order, the Health Department noted that while the labels of many energy drinks already state that they are “not suitable for children,” these products are nonetheless being sold to children and youth on a massive scale. These drinks contain ingredients such as caffeine, guarana, taurine, and ginseng, which exert a stimulating effect on the body.
**Potential Negative Impact on Health**
Citing medical studies, the department has issued a warning that excessive caffeine consumption can have adverse effects on the heart, brain, digestive system, and kidneys. This poses a particularly high risk to children, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers. FDA Commissioner Kanwal Preet Brar stated that this decision was taken with public health in mind, and strict action will be initiated against anyone found violating these regulations.
