Andorra Youth Groups Demand Energy Drink Bans for Minors

Youth and child welfare groups in Andorra are calling for stricter regulations on energy drinks, citing rising consumption among children and adolescents in schools, sports facilities, and leisure settings.

Dàmaris Castellanos, director general of Unicef Andorra, highlighted the vulnerability of adolescence to physical and mental health risks. Frequent intake of these beverages can disrupt sleep, nutrition, and concentration, she said, urging greater focus on prevention and healthy habits in family, school, and personal contexts.

Projecte Vida, another key organisation, has noted a steady increase in usage and included specific measures in its proposals for the National Plan against Drug Addiction (PNCD) 2026–2029. President Eva Tenorio pointed out that consumption has become normalised, with young people often underestimating the risks. While not a primary reason for addiction-related consultations, the drinks contribute to a broader trend of stimulant use—particularly alarming when mixed with alcohol or other drugs.

The group advocates addressing the issue through education and prevention, framing it within wider health promotion and early risk reduction efforts. Proposals include debating sales restrictions for minors, similar to planned measures in Spain prohibiting sales to under-16s, and targeted awareness campaigns for youth and families.

Key concerns encompass high caffeine levels, effects on sleep and emotional regulation, heightened anxiety risks—especially for those with ADHD or emotional challenges—and the masking of alcohol intoxication, which can lead to riskier behaviour.

Projecte Vida also pushes for promoting alternatives like proper rest, exercise, balanced diets, and stress management techniques. It calls for collaboration among schools, families, sports organisations, retailers, and public authorities to tackle the problem.