A recent Nordic study highlights that more than 60% of teenagers drink energy drinks weekly, with some starting before age 12, raising concerns over health impacts and regulatory measures.
A new Nordic survey suggests energy drinks have become part of everyday life for many teenagers, with more than six in 10 15- to 19-year-olds saying they drink them at least once a week and just over one in five doing so daily. The study, carried out on behalf of the Nordic Council of Ministers and led by Sweden’s food agency, drew on responses from almost 5,000 young people across the region. In Finland, a significant share of those who drink energy drinks said they started before the age of 12.
On Åland, where officials took part in preparing the questionnaire, the findings have prompted concern about how early the habit begins. Anna-Maria Feldhoffer, a nutrition specialist at the regional government, said there was no reason to think the picture would be very different on the islands from elsewhere in the Nordic region, even though too few Åland respondents were included for separate results to be published. She said the early age at which some children start was the part that troubled her most, because habits established young are harder to change.
The survey found that almost a quarter of Finnish energy drink users began before turning 12, and another third started at 12 or 13. That matters, Feldhoffer said, because children may not connect symptoms such as palpitations, headaches, dizziness or sleep problems with what they are drinking. The Nordic report said around 30% of respondents reported negative health effects, while nearly half said they sometimes felt unable to get through the day without an energy drink.
Feldhoffer also warned that the drinks can edge out proper meals, especially breakfast, when young people reach for them as a quick source of stimulation. If energy drinks begin to replace food, she said, that can affect concentration, health and general wellbeing, and may add to anxiety and sleep difficulties. Taste was the most common reason given for drinking them, followed by wanting more energy and staying awake.
The issue is already feeding into policy debate in Finland. There is currently no statutory age limit for energy drinks, though guidance says under-15s should not consume them and retailers may impose their own restrictions. Finland’s public health institute has backed an 18-year limit, but a draft government bill now proposes banning sales, transfer or delivery of energy drinks to under-16s. If adopted, that rule would also apply on Åland through the island’s food law framework. Feldhoffer also pointed to marketing, arguing that bright packaging and new flavours make the products especially attractive to children and teenagers.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
