North CDU: No sale of energy drinks to under-16s - Germany’s CDU pushes for nationwide ban on energy drinks for under-16s

The CDU in Schleswig-Holstein is pushing for a nationwide ban on selling energy drinks to under-16s. The proposal will be formally presented at the CDU federal party conference in February 2026. Consumer groups and doctors have long warned about the health dangers of these drinks for young people.

Germany currently has no age limits on buying energy drinks. But Schleswig-Holstein’s Consumer Protection Minister, Cornelia Schmachtenberg (CDU), backs the restriction. She points to the high caffeine and sugar levels, which can cause restlessness, poor concentration, and sleep issues in young consumers.

The state’s CDU branch, supported by its youth wing Junge Union, will submit the motion next year. Antonia Grage, the party’s managing director, called the plan a way to 'effectively protect children and young people'. The move follows years of warnings from health experts and advocacy groups about the risks of energy drinks for minors. Consumer protection organisations have repeatedly urged action. Their latest push aligns with the CDU’s proposal, adding pressure for stricter rules on sales to adolescents.

If passed, the ban would prevent under-16s from buying energy drinks across Germany. The CDU’s motion will be debated at the party conference in early 2026. A decision could lead to the first nationwide age restriction on these beverages.