Quebec becomes first Canadian province to ban energy drinks for youth

 

 

 

Quebec has become the first Canadian province to ban energy drinks for youth. The move is part of a broader effort to curb the consumption of energy drinks among teenagers. The Quebec National Assembly has unanimously passed Bill 9, which would completely ban the sale and free distribution of highly caffeinated energy drinks to children under 16.

Under the new law, which will take effect across the province in six months, anyone who comes to buy energy drinks will have to show a photo ID to prove their age. The law also bans online sales and distribution through vending machines. The government was prompted by the death of 15-year-old Zachary Miron in 2024 after consuming an energy drink and ADHD medication together.

The bill was passed after much debate in the House as the parliamentary session drew to a close ahead of the general election in October. The new law would impose fines of $100 on teenagers who violate it, and $500 to $1,500 on adults who buy drinks for them. The law would impose a maximum fine of $62,500 on businesses that violate the law, with the fines doubling for repeat offenders. Quebec Health Minister Sonia Bélanger said the legislation was a good start to ensuring the health and safety of teenagers.