Energy Drinks Like Bang Face Global Health Concerns, Calls for Regulation
Energy drinks, such as Bang, are non-alcoholic beverages that have gained popularity among young people. However, their high caffeine content and other ingredients have raised health concerns, leading to regulatory actions worldwide.
Energy drinks contain more than just caffeine; they also have amino acids, electrolytes, and vitamins. Yet, the long-term effects of consuming these ingredients in high doses, especially in children and adolescents, are not fully understood. Adolescents and young adults may be more sensitive to caffeine's effects, experiencing intense side effects even at lower doses. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises against energy drink consumption for children and adolescents.
In the UK, a nationwide ban on selling high-caffeine energy drinks to under-16s was introduced in September 2025 to protect young people's health. Germany, however, has no such legal ban, but advertising rules restrict direct marketing to children. Retailers may implement their own policies due to health concerns.
Caffeine, a stimulant, can increase alertness and focus but also cause anxiety, insomnia, rapid heart rate, and increased blood pressure. Energy drinks like Bang contain high levels of caffeine, around 300 milligrams per 16-ounce can, which is significantly higher than coffee or soda.
The legal drinking age of 21 in the US applies to alcoholic beverages, not energy drinks. While the FDA oversees energy drink safety and labeling, regulations are not as stringent as those for alcoholic beverages. Some states have considered or implemented restrictions on selling high-caffeine energy drinks to minors.
Parental discretion plays a crucial role in deciding what children consume. Many parents restrict or prohibit their children from consuming energy drinks due to concerns about caffeine intake, sugar content, and other ingredients.
Energy drinks, despite not being subject to the same regulations as alcoholic beverages, pose potential health risks to young people due to their high caffeine content and other ingredients. Regulatory actions worldwide aim to protect young consumers, but parental discretion remains vital in controlling access to these drinks.
