The Human Rights Commissioner (Ombudsman) of Azerbaijan has proposed a significant increase in administrative fines for the sale of energy drinks to minors to curb rising consumption among the youth. According to the Operative Information Center-OMM, the proposal follows a series of monitoring activities conducted by the Ombudsman's Office in public spaces and near educational institutions across the country.
The monitoring revealed that the consumption of energy drinks by minors has taken on a systemic character in Azerbaijan. The Ombudsman's Office noted that age-limit controls are insufficient, particularly in retail outlets and automated sales terminals. "It has been observed that age control mechanisms are virtually non-existent in vending machines and retail facilities," the statement said. Consequently, the Ombudsman has called for the implementation of age identification systems for vending machines, stricter advertising restrictions, and the introduction of mandatory health risk warnings on packaging.
In Azerbaijan, the regulation of energy drinks is primarily governed by food safety standards and public health protocols. While existing legislation prohibits the sale of these beverages to those under 18, enforcement remains a challenge for local authorities. This new initiative aims to align Azerbaijan's regulatory framework with international health standards, ensuring that the physical and mental well-being of the younger generation is protected from the potential risks associated with high-caffeine and stimulant-heavy beverages.
