In a major step aimed at protecting children's health, the Maharashtra government has announced a ban on the sale of high-caffeine energy drinks, including popular brands such as Sting, within a 500-metre radius of schools across the state.
The decision was announced in the State Legislative Assembly by Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Minister Narhari Zirwal after BJP MLA Vikram Pachpute raised concerns over the widespread availability of energy drinks outside educational institutions.
Responding to the issue in the Assembly, Minister Zirwal acknowledged that energy drinks are commonly sold near schools despite concerns over their suitability for children. He said the state would strictly enforce a 500-metre no-sale zone around educational institutions for energy drinks, alongside existing restrictions on narcotics and other harmful substances.
Authorities have also been instructed to conduct regular inspections of vendors operating near schools, collect food and beverage samples for laboratory testing, and take action against misleading advertisements or products found to violate food safety norms.
The move is part of a broader initiative to create healthier environments around schools and reduce children's exposure to products that may pose long-term health risks.
MLA Vikram Pachpute argued that although energy drinks comply with existing manufacturing standards, their easy availability near schools encourages excessive consumption among children.
He pointed out that several energy drink labels themselves advise that the products are not recommended for children or pregnant women. Despite these warnings, the beverages continue to be sold openly outside school premises, making them easily accessible to students.
Pachpute also urged the government to consider introducing age-based restrictions on the sale of such drinks to minors.
Meanwhile, BJP MLA Rahul Kul called for a wider investigation into the sale of harmful products around schools. He alleged that narcotics are sometimes disguised as flavoured betel products and also expressed concern over flavoured milk beverages containing excessive sugar and artificial additives.
Minister Zirwal informed the House that the FDA has already initiated a high-level investigation into products being sold around educational institutions. He referred to administrative circulars issued on October 3, 2024, and September 17, 2025, directing officials to strengthen inspections near schools and take strict enforcement action wherever necessary.
The government has also indicated that schools will be encouraged to conduct awareness programmes educating students about the health risks associated with excessive consumption of caffeinated and sugary beverages.
Health experts have consistently warned that many energy drinks contain high levels of caffeine and sugar, making them unsuitable for children and adolescents when consumed regularly.
A standard 250 ml bottle of Sting Energy Drink typically contains:
Regular consumption of such beverages may contribute to increased heart rate and blood pressure, sleep disturbances, anxiety, hyperactivity, obesity, metabolic disorders and early dependence on caffeine.
The Maharashtra government's decision comes shortly after the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issued notices to six major energy drink manufacturers over alleged misbranding and misleading promotional claims.
The notices were reportedly served to brands including Red Bull Energy Drink, Sting Energy Drink, Monster Energy, Hell Energy, Adrenaline Rush Energy Drink and Campa Gold Boost.
Officials have clarified that while the term "energy drink" is not specifically defined under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, these beverages are regulated as "Non-Alcoholic Caffeinated Beverages" under the Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011.
The announcement coincided with the arrival of newly appointed FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe, who assumed office on May 25. Since taking charge, Mundhe has launched an aggressive statewide drive against banned gutkha, pan masala, food adulteration and unhygienic food establishments.
As part of the ongoing enforcement campaign, the FDA has already suspended the food safety licences of several hotels, restaurants, bakeries and clubs in Mumbai for violating food safety regulations.
With the latest restrictions, Maharashtra has signalled a stronger focus on safeguarding children's health by limiting their exposure to high-caffeine beverages and strengthening food safety enforcement around schools.