Union energy drinks plea

Energy drink exclusion zones around schools could help limit consumption among young people, MPs have been told.

The Government should consider imposing a ban on retailers near schools to stop sales of caffeinefilled products to under16s, teachers’ union NASUWT said.

The move would be a first step in addressing “alarming levels” of energy drink consumption among children, the Science and Technology Committee heard.

Darren Northcott, a national officer at NASUWT, warned that energy drinks could exacerbate poor behaviour in the classroom, impair concentration and affect the amount of sleep children are getting.

He said a total ban on the sale of energy drinks to under-16s should be implemented in future.

James Lowman, chief executive of the Association of Convenience Stores, said the approach would not necessarily stop children buying energy drinks on their way to school and may mean certain shops benefit unfairly.

Professor Russell Viner, president of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, voiced his support for a total ban.