Energy Drinks

Energy drinks have become increasingly popular in Australia - and these drinks are often marketed at younger people. This has led to concerns about the possible effect of these drinks on children, and calls to ban them from being advertised and sold to children.

The Dietitians Association of Australia (DAA) has long been calling for tighter regulation of food and beverage marketing to children. DAA would like to see more responsible marketing of food and beverage products, such as energy drinks, by the food and beverage industry.

Energy drinks are generally low in nutrition and have higher levels of added sugar, compared with other drinks. This can increase a child’s daily energy (or kilojoule) intake. Energy drinks should not replace healthier drinks, such as plain water. And for people wanting to boost energy levels, eating a healthy, balanced diet is the best approach.

DAA encourages Australians to read the labels on energy drinks. And DAA is calling on the food and beverage industry to make sure nutrition labelling on these drinks is clear and easy-to-understand. DAA also believes labelling should continue to inform the public that these drinks are not recommended for children, pregnant or lactating women, or people who are sensitive to caffeine.

DAA supports more research on the consumption of energy drinks by Australians (including children) and the health implications of this.