Finland’s health authority proposes legal ban on energy drink sales to under-18s

Finland’s National Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) has proposed a legal ban on selling energy drinks to anyone under 18, citing rising consumption among young people and concerns over health risks.

The proposal has gained support from the country’s two largest retail groups, S-Group and Kesko, which argue that a statutory age limit would simplify enforcement and sales practices. Kesko’s daily goods division director, Tuuli Luoma, stated that a legal restriction would make it easier for staff to justify refusals to customers, unlike the current voluntary guidelines.

S-Group’s market planning director, Mika Lyytikäinen, called the proposal a “tremendous clarification” of the existing situation, noting that an 18-year threshold would align with standard ID-checking procedures. “We’re accustomed to enforcing age limits for 18-year-olds,” he said, adding that legislation should specify which caffeine concentrations would fall under the restriction.

Kesko has not yet taken a position on the exact age limit, pending further review of THL’s research. Lidl Finland also emphasized the need for clear legal rules rather than leaving enforcement to individual retailers.

THL’s push follows a 2026 youth nutrition study showing 67% of 12–20-year-olds consume energy drinks at least occasionally, with 42% using them weekly. Many reported feeling dependent or concerned about excessive intake. Current health risks linked to youth consumption include elevated blood pressure, sleep disturbances, and dental problems.

While THL has recommended against selling energy drinks to under-15s for over a decade, compliance varies—some stores enforce the guideline, others do not. Neither S-Group nor Kesko has issued nationwide instructions, leaving decisions to local franchisees.