Government Aims to Combat Childhood Obesity with Potential Ban
- Government seeks public views on banning energy drink sales to children
- Consultation proposes ban for drinks with more than 150mg of caffeine per litre
- Energy drinks already banned by many major retailers but still accessible through vending machines and independent stores
- Over two-thirds of 10-17 year olds, a quarter of 6-9 year olds consume energy drinks
- Non-diet energy drinks contain 60% more calories and 65% more sugar than regular soft drinks
- Teenagers consume 50% more energy drinks than European counterparts
- Teachers report links between energy drinks and poor classroom behavior
The UK government is consulting the public on banning energy drink sales to children and young people, following the publication of its childhood obesity plan in June 2018. The proposed ban would apply to drinks containing over 150mg of caffeine per litre and prevent retailers from selling them to minors. Energy drinks are already banned by major retailers but can still be purchased by children through vending machines and independent stores. Over two-thirds of 10-17 year olds and a quarter of 6-9 year olds consume energy drinks, with one 250ml can containing nearly three times the caffeine of a can of cola. Non-diet energy drinks contain 60% more calories and 65% more sugar than regular soft drinks. Prime Minister Theresa May encourages public input on the matter to ensure children’s health and wellbeing.
Factuality Level: 8
Factuality Justification: The article provides accurate information about the government’s proposal to ban energy drinks for children and young people, citing relevant statistics and quotes from key figures. It also includes context on the current situation with major retailers and the potential impact on public health.
Noise Level: 3
Noise Justification: The article provides relevant information about the government’s proposal to ban energy drink sales to children and young people in England, citing concerns over health and education. It includes quotes from relevant sources and presents a clear topic without diving into unrelated territories. The article also supports its claims with statistics on consumption rates and the impact of energy drinks on children’s health.
Financial Relevance: Yes
Financial Markets Impacted: The ban on energy drinks could impact the sales of energy drink companies, affecting their revenue and stock prices.
Financial Rating Justification: While the article primarily discusses a potential government regulation, it does have financial implications for energy drink companies and their stocks in the market.
Presence Of Extreme Event: No
Nature Of Extreme Event: Other
Impact Rating Of The Extreme Event: No
Extreme Rating Justification: There is no extreme event mentioned in the article.
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