MOVE TO CURB THE PRACTICE IN SHARJAH

An official at the health department said the Sharjah Municipality is continuing to crack down outlet selling caffeine beverages to minors under 16 years.

“Despite continuous inspections targeting groceries and cafeterias in residential areas and school zones, there are some who are violating the regulations. The groceries and supermarket chains can continue to sell energy drinks, but keep them separate and not sell them to children less than 16 years,” he said.

The official said the health department implements the ban on selling energy drinks to minors based on the regulation of the Emirates Authority for Standardisation and Metrology (Esma).

“The Esma regulation stipulates the following limitations per 100 grams of a product — caffeine should not exceed 32mg; taurine 400mg; anistol 20mg; and gluconolactone 240mg. It also states that the product must be registered with the health authority before being distributed in the market and be free from banned drugs and hormones. Any added ingredients must be approved by the health authorities concerned,” he said.

The official also stressed that the packaging information clearly displays the statutory warning: ‘This product should not be consumed by pregnant women, lactating mothers and children less than 16 years old, athletes during exercise, and people who are allergic to caffeine, and those suffering from heart problems’.

A member of the Sharjah Consultative Council (SCC) said that schools and authorities concerned must play a great role in spreading awareness among the children and parents on the health risks of high caffeine intake. “Caffeine is a strong and potentially dangerous stimulant, particularly for children and adolescents. A ban decision by the municipality will not help without the cooperation of parents who can control children and follow their activities. Parents should engage their kids in sports or other physical or social activities during the vacation,” he said.