Strict law

No more energy drinks for children in the Czech Republic

The Czech Republic wants to ban the sale and serving of energy drinks to children under the age of 15. There are similar bans with different age limits in Poland, the Baltic countries, Sweden and Norway. In Austria and Germany, sales are not subject to any age restrictions.

A general ban on the sale of energy drinks in schools, healthcare facilities and children's homes is planned. Energy drinks have enjoyed great popularity in the Czech Republic for years and are marketed intensively. They often contain large amounts of sugar and caffeine.

Protection from stimulants 
The aim is to protect children's health from the undesirable effects of various stimulants, explained Agriculture Minister Marek Vyborny. Both chambers of parliament in Prague still have to approve the bill. However, the coalition has a clear majority.

"Nonsensical restriction"
 The Czech Association of Non-alcoholic Beverage Manufacturers criticized the decision. Its president Michal Dyttert spoke of a "nonsensical restriction of entrepreneurial freedom", which in practice would also mean a ban on sales from vending machines. Instead of restrictions, the focus should be on education.