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Energy and sports drinks: sugar, caffeine and who they are for

Every energy and sports drink broken down by can and bottle, with sugar and caffeine compared against relevant guidance.

Energy drinks combine high sugar with high caffeine, and most UK retailers voluntarily refuse to sell them to under-16s for that reason.

Caffeine content

A single large can can carry as much caffeine as two cups of coffee. There is no established safe caffeine level for children, and sleep disruption is the most common effect.

Sugar-free energy drinks remove the sugar but not the caffeine, which is the part that matters most for younger people.

Sports drinks are a different product

Isotonic sports drinks are formulated to replace fluid and electrolytes during prolonged exercise. Their sugar content serves a purpose in that context and not otherwise.

For general hydration and for children's sport, water is sufficient in almost all circumstances.

Browse every energy & sports drinks product

Each product page includes a full nutrition breakdown per serving and per pack, portion size comparisons, age-adjusted NHS daily reference intake calculations for children aged 4 to 17, an interactive calculator for your child's specific age and gender, and a complete ingredient and allergen guide.