Schleswig-Holstein Considers Age Restriction for Energy Drink Sales

Schleswig-Holstein’s Minister for Landwirtschaft, ländliche Räume, Europa und Verbraucherschutz, Cornelia Schmachtenberg (CDU), has voiced concerns about the consumption of energy drinks among young people, describing it as a “canned health risk.” She and her party are advocating for a minimum age of 16 for the purchase of these beverages.

Health Concerns and Support for Restrictions

State politicians warn that excessive energy drink consumption can lead to a range of health problems, including palpitations, obesity, high blood pressure, difficulty concentrating, gastrointestinal diseases and vomiting. A survey commissioned by the Foodwatch association indicates significant public support for age restrictions, with 87 percent of respondents favoring a minimum age for the sale of caffeinated drinks. Foodwatch

Political Debate and Alternative Approaches

While the CDU and SPD support restrictions, the FDP proposes a different approach, emphasizing “education, health literacy and the ability to make responsible decisions” rather than an outright ban. Critics, like Schleswig-Holsteinische Zeitungen editor Kay Müller, suggest that a ban attempts to “politically repair what we have all messed up socially” and advocate for shared responsibility in protecting young people. Schleswig-Holsteinische Zeitungen

Cornelia Schmachtenberg’s Background

Cornelia Schmachtenberg, born February 17, 1991, in Munich, has served as the Minister for Landwirtschaft, ländliche Räume, Europa und Verbraucherschutz in Schleswig-Holstein since November 2025. She was a member of the Schleswig-Holstein Landtag starting in June 2022. Prior to her ministerial role, Schmachtenberg held various positions in the state government, including roles within the Ministry for Education and the Ministry for Energiewende, Landwirtschaft, Umweltschutz und Digitalisierung. Schleswig-Holstein State Government, Wikipedia, CDU Landtagsfraktion Schleswig-Holstein

Schmachtenberg studied Agrarwissenschaften (Agricultural Sciences) at the Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel, earning both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree. She is married and resides in Jevenstedt.