Russia to Ban Energy Drink Sales to Minors

Russia will implement a nationwide ban on the sale of energy drinks to minors beginning March 1, according to Alexander Tolmachov, Deputy Chairman of the State Duma’s Youth Policy Committee.

Under the new regulation, retailers must verify a buyer’s age if they suspect they are underage. If a customer fails to provide valid identification, such as a passport, the seller is required to refuse the sale.

This measure aligns with Russia’s broader efforts to protect children from harmful substances, following recent crackdowns on the sale of tobacco and nicotine products, including e-cigarettes, to minors.

Tolmachov emphasized that energy drinks are often misunderstood by both adults and children. Unlike soft drinks or coffee, they contain high doses of caffeine, which can have unpredictable effects on developing bodies.

Many teenagers consume them for entertainment or as an alternative to alcohol, sometimes leading to severe health consequences such as heart issues, emergency medical visits, or even early-onset cardiovascular diseases.

Some Russian regions have already imposed restrictions on energy drink sales in schools, hospitals, sports facilities, museums, and theaters.

So far, 65 federal subjects have introduced similar regulations at the regional level. The new federal law standardizes these measures nationwide.

To enforce the ban, the government is introducing fines ranging from 50,000 rubles for individuals to 500,000 rubles for businesses violating the regulation. Previously, penalties varied by region, with fines reaching up to 150,000 rubles in Moscow.

Tolmachov concluded by advising adults to avoid energy drinks altogether, prioritize heart health, and ensure they get adequate rest.