The government of the Czech Republic plans to ban the sale of energy drinks to children under 15 years old. The Minister of Agriculture of the Czech Republic, Marek Vyborny, presented a draft law aimed at protecting children's health from the harmful effects of various stimulants. The draft law proposes a ban on the sale of energy drinks in schools, medical institutions, and children’s homes.
Many energy drinks contain large amounts of sugar and caffeine. The Czech Association of Beverage Producers expressed criticism regarding the proposed ban. The president of the association, Michal Diter, called it a 'strange restriction of freedom for entrepreneurs,' which essentially means a ban on sales in vending machines. Instead of restrictions, he suggested focusing on education.
For the adoption of the legislation, the agreement of both chambers of parliament in Prague is still needed, but the liberal-conservative ruling majority controls both chambers.