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Panel considering ban on energy drinks for under 18s

The move comes following concern raised by medical studies that the health of youngsters might be at risk due to caffeine in energy drinks.

The Higher Committee for Consumer Protection will discuss the issue of raising the age limit for consumption of energy drinks from 16 to 18.This comes following concern raised by medical studies that the health of youngsters might be at risk due to caffeine in energy drinks.

Dr Hashim Al Nuaimi, Director of Consumer Protection Department at the Ministry of Economy, said he will meet with agents and representatives of the energy drinks producers in the country — a meeting which will also be attended by the Emirates Standardisation and Metrology Authority and Ministry of Health — for placement of the new standards.

Another meeting will also be held with local sales outlets in order to put the new decision in place. The display of the product shall include special shelves at cooperative societies, sales outlets and groceries. Warning labels that will ban the sale of the drink to people under 18 years, pregnant women, and breastfeeding women will also be placed.

salah@khaleejtimes.com