Regulating High-energy Drink Sales to Youths Under 16 and Impacts of Consumption on Youths in Singapore

18 Mr Melvin Yong Yik Chye asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health (a) whether the Ministry is studying the UK government’s proposed ban on the sale of high-caffeine energy drinks to youths under the age of 16; and (b) whether the Ministry is aware of local studies done to examine the impact of consumption of such drinks on youths in Singapore.

Mr Ong Ye Kung: The Ministry of Health (MOH) is aware of the UK government's proposed ban and ongoing public consultation.

Internationally, there is currently no recognised health-based guidance for caffeine intake or international standards on the amount of caffeine allowed to be added to food. Regardless, caffeine should be consumed in moderation and individuals are advised to limit their intake to avoid adverse side effects.

High-caffeine energy drinks, which tend to contain high amounts of sugar and/or sugar substitutes, account for less than 1% of the total sales of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) in Singapore. The Healthy Meals in Schools Programme restricts the sale of SSBs in schools, hence youths are generally not exposed to such drinks in schools.

Currently, there are no local studies being conducted to examine the impact of consumption of high-caffeine energy drinks in youths. MOH and the Health Promotion Board will continue to monitor the developments internationally and encourage Singaporeans to adopt healthier diets overall.