Report

In a decisive move against substance abuse, Punjab has become the first Indian state to ban the sale of energy drinks in and around schools. The state government issued the ban on Tuesday, aiming to curb caffeine addiction among schoolchildren as part of its broader anti-drug campaign.

Government Issues One-Year Ban 

Dilraj Singh Sandhawalia, Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Punjab, signed the notification that enforces the ban under Section 30(2)(a) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. The order prohibits the sale of energy drinks in school canteens, tuck shops, and within 100 meters of school premises in rural areas and 50 meters in urban areas. The ban will remain in effect for one year starting April 21, 2025.

Health Concerns Drive the Decision

The FDA justified the ban by highlighting the health risks of caffeinated energy drinks for children. The notification pointed out that companies aggressively market these beverages to young people and often compare their stimulating effects to drugs like cocaine. These drinks typically contain high levels of caffeine—up to 80 mg per serving—as well as other stimulants such as guarana, taurine, ginseng, and B-vitamins.

The administration noted that while caffeine may temporarily enhance mental performance, it poses health risks, especially when combined with alcohol or other addictive substances. It warned that excessive caffeine consumption could lead to cardiovascular, neurological, gastrointestinal, and renal issues.

Scientific and Regulatory Backing

Citing concerns raised by the scientific community, the government emphasised that children should not consume products containing caffeine. It also mentioned that regulations usually prohibit the use of caffeine in beverages frequently consumed by children. The FDA warned that caffeine-fortified foods could influence the formulation of other child-targeted products. It also highlighted that pregnant and lactating women are vulnerable to the harmful effects of high caffeine intake.

Part of the Anti-Drug Strategy

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)-led government intensified its crackdown on drug abuse following the party’s loss in the Delhi Assembly elections. As part of this campaign, the state launched ‘bulldozer action’ against drug peddlers and arrested several of them in recent months.

To address the growing concern, the state formed a cabinet subcommittee with ministers Harpal Cheema, Aman Arora, and Dr. Balbir Singh. Dr. Singh, who also serves as Punjab health minister, said the committee observed that early exposure to energy drinks could lead children to develop caffeine dependence and potentially transition to narcotics later in life.

Legal Authority and Industry Labels Support Ban

Before issuing the notification, the state sought legal advice and confirmed that the FDA Commissioner holds the authority to impose such a ban. The decision aligns with labels on many energy drink brands, which already state that the products are “not recommended for children.”

Source: The Indian Express