At What Age Can You Drink Energy Drinks? Age Restrictions for Red Bull and Monster Energy

Posted on January 17, 2022 | Last updated February 10, 2025

In some countries, there have been incidents where teenagers have died from consuming energy drinks. This raises the question of whether there are age restrictions on energy drinks and at what age you can drink Red Bull, Monster Energy, and other brands. In this article, we'll discuss the age limits set by major manufacturers and countries that have imposed sales restrictions for minors.

Author information Author: Energy Drink-kun

In 2001, while living in the United States, I encountered energy drinks through the dance scene and was deeply impressed. After returning to Japan, I found that energy drinks were considered novelty beverages, so I established a comprehensive website in 2013 to share the true appeal of energy drinks. As an energy drink enthusiast, I began drinking them seriously again, collecting over 7,000 varieties of energy drinks from various countries. I am also active as a critic and expert, receiving media interviews.

There Are No Age Restrictions on Energy Drinks

Energy drinks are considered soft drinks, so there are no specific age restrictions in place. As a result, even elementary or middle school students can easily purchase energy drinks.

However, since each energy drink contains the equivalent amount of caffeine found in one to two cups of coffee, manufacturers do not recommend them for children, pregnant women, or individuals with sensitivity to caffeine.

Many Manufacturers Do Not Recommend Energy Drinks for Those Under 18

At What Age Can You Drink Energy Drinks? Age Restrictions for Red Bull and Monster Energy

Many energy drinks sold overseas carry warnings such as “Not recommended for those under 18,” reflecting the general view that while there may not be formal age restrictions, children should avoid consuming them.

Age Restrictions for Energy Drinks in Europe

In Europe, there is a strong opinion that consuming energy drinks is dangerous for minors, and some countries have already imposed age restrictions. For example, a 250ml can of Red Bull contains 80mg of caffeine (the equivalent of one cup of coffee), while a 500ml can of Monster Energy contains 160mg of caffeine (equivalent to two cups of coffee).

Age Restriction in Lithuania

In Lithuania, minors under the age of 18 are prohibited from purchasing energy drinks.
⇒ Lithuania Bans Energy Drinks for Those Under 18 (News from May 17, 2014)

Age Restriction in the UK

In the UK, there has been a growing call to impose age restrictions, and retailers have started regulating the sale of energy drinks to those under 16. However, it is not a law like the restrictions on tobacco or alcohol.
⇒ Energy Drink Age Restriction Considered in the UK for Those Under 16 (News from March 7, 2018)
⇒ UK Moves Toward Legislation to Ban Energy Drink Purchases for Minors (News from August 31, 2018)

While energy drinks are particularly popular among younger people, there are concerns about the health risks of consuming excessive amounts of caffeine, especially for children whose bodies are still developing.

Given that most major energy drink brands contain about the same amount of caffeine as one or two cups of coffee, if energy drinks are to be regulated, there may also be a need for similar age restrictions on coffee beverages sold in cafes or coffee shops.