Why Jamie Oliver wants to ban this product
Celebrity chef Jamie Oliver has been accused of “moral scaremongering” by some parties, for advocating a ban on selling energy drinks to children under 16.
The TV host, who has long campaigned against childhood obesity, believes the sale of these caffeine-laden drinks should be prohibited to youngsters.
But the Australian Beverages Council, which represents drinks like Red Bull, Monster and V Energy, have hit back, saying Oliver’s claims are, “just not supported by the facts”.
The council’s chief executive Geoff Parker, said: “If caffeine is this celebrity chef’s main concern, then we expect Mr Oliver to also be calling for age restrictions on coffee, tea, and even the chocolate in his own decadent desserts.
“By law in Australia, energy drinks must be clearly labelled that they are not suitable for children.”
Oliver is not alone in his calls to ban the drinks, with the Australian Dental Association, Obesity Coalition and Country Women’s Association also supporting a ban.
The Heart Foundation, Diabetes Australian and Cancer Council Australia also weighed in, and want the products to be taxed heavily to discourage consumption.
What are your thoughts? Are you with the celebrity chef on this one?
Hero image credit: Twitter / Jamie Oliver