Up to seven autonomous communities are considering following in the footsteps of Galicia and regulating the sale of energy drinks to minors, a sector of the population that, according to the Ministry of Health and the Spanish Association of Pediatrics (AEP), should not consume this type of products due to the harmful effects they have on minors.
From the AEP, they remember that energy drinks, which have large doses of caffeine and simple sugars, "should not be consumed in the pediatric age", which includes childhood and adolescence.
For example, a 250 ml can of Red Bull Energy Drink contains 80 mg of caffeine, according to the brand on its website. And a 500ml Monster Energy Ultra can contains up to 160mg of caffeine.
In the case of coffee, a 60 ml espresso contains 80 mg of caffeine, according to data from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). Same amount as a normal can of energy drink.
Although the amount of caffeine in black coffee and an energy drink is the same, it does not affect minors in the same way. In fact, the Ministry of Consumer Affairs reminds that consumers weighing 50 kg should avoid consuming energy drinks with more than 32 mg/100ml to avoid sleep disturbances.
According to a study published in 2021 by the ministry, consumption of 1.4 mg of caffeine per kilo of weight per day can lead to insomnia and reduced sleep duration. If intake exceeds 3 mg, it entails cardiovascular and hematological, neurological and psycho-behavioral risks.
The Organization of Consumers and Users (OCU) has also proposed to the Ministry of Consumer Affairs to regulate labeling of energy drinks similar to that of tobacco, in which 65% of the surface of the container is reserved to highlight warning messages.
For this organization, caffeine, consumed in moderate amounts, increases alertness and reduces drowsiness, and could even have beneficial effects on cardiovascular health. Furthermore, it warns that in excess these benefits become risks that can interrupt sleep, cause anxiety and produce behavioral changes.
