Minister Stórá calls for urgent action on energy drinks consumption in children and adolescents

The Minister of Health, Margit Stórá, emphasized the need for effective measures and regulations regarding the consumption of energy drinks, particularly among children and adolescents. She indicated that urgent action is necessary to curb their usage.

Data from the Health Authority reveals a significant increase in the import of energy drinks from 2010 to 2021. The Minister has initiated discussions on this issue with Høgni Hoydal, the Minister of Industry.

During a parliamentary session on Thursday, the Minister noted that the public health advisory council made recommendations back in December 2014, suggesting that energy drinks should be sold separately in stores. It was advised that the labels on these beverages should clearly indicate the presence of stimulating substances that can be harmful in large quantities, particularly when consumed alongside alcoholic drinks. Furthermore, it was recommended that individuals under the age of 18 should refrain from consuming these drinks.

The Health Authority has informed the Minister that the recommendations from the public health council, which are now nearly ten years old, will soon be updated. The health professionals highlighted in 2017 that energy drinks are not intended for children. The trends regarding the importation of these drinks reflect a growing concern about their increased availability and consumption among younger populations.