Energy drink issue bubbles as Byron considers ban

A lobby group which represents soft-drink manufacturers says calls for a ban on the sale of alcohol mixed with energy drinks are over the top.

The proposal was part of a Byron Shire Council submission to a review of the state's Liquor Act.

Byron Mayor Simon Richardson says it could be a helpful strategy as the community looks for ways to address Byron Bay's problems with alcohol-related violence.

But Geoff Parker, from the Australian Beverages Council, says it's a misguided move.

"We support what various councils and police and licensed venues are doing to try to curb anti-social behaviour," he said.

"But trying to blame late-night violence on a non-alcoholic mixer is going too far.

"These energy drinks contain around the same amount of caffeine as an instant cup of coffee, so not a great deal of caffeine is in them.

"But recent studies have shown that people who mix alcohol with energy drinks, actually drink less alcohol than people who just drink alcohol by itself."

But a local youth worker wants a blanket ban on the sale of energy drinks to people under 18.

The Federal Health Department has released a discussion paper on the regulation and availability of caffeinated energy drinks.

It was triggered by growing concern from health groups about the potential adverse medical effects.

Nicqui Yazdi says young people who drink a lot of caffeinated products often suffer anxiety.

"I'd totally like to see all energy drinks removed from sale on the shelves of our supermarkets and our corner stores," she said.

"I'd like to see it go the way of alcohol and tobacco and completely banned to anyone under the age of 18.

"Because it is a very, very potent mix of lots and lots of drugs."

Source: ABC News, 3 September 2013