EU Parliament against misleading advertising slogans on energy drinks
The European Parliament has spoken out against misleading advertising claims on caffeinated energy drinks. Claims such as «improves concentration,» «provides energy,» or «increases stamina» are to be banned.
In a resolution passed in Strasbourg on Thursday, the European Parliament rejected the European Commission's plans. As justification, the Parliament refers to the high sugar content of up to 27 grams in a quarter-liter can. It also refers to surveys according to which 68 percent of young people and 18 percent of children in the EU regularly drink energy drinks. Due to the caffeine content - around 80 milligrams per can - this could lead to headaches, sleep or even behavioral disorders, especially in children. However, the resolution is not binding on the Commission. The Brussels authority can disregard it. It is not a question of banning energy drinks or coffee, emphasized SPD MEP Susanne Melior. But excessive consumption of caffeine could lead to cardiac arrhythmia, cramps or kidney failure. WHO recommends a ban In addition, 58 percent of Europeans are overweight. In view of these facts, the planned advertising slogans on bottles or cans cannot be justified. "No profit at the expense of children's health," warns the SPD politician. Melior refers to a recommendation by the World Health Organization (WHO) to ban the sale of energy drinks to children and young people. However, this could only be decided by the member states alone. The EU has no competence in this area. (SDA)
