As parents we universally want what is best for our kids.  We protect them from bullies, violence and discrimination but I believe it is time to bring our children's health back to the forefront.  Rates of Type-2 Diabetes are rising among children and adolescents, and over 26% of children aged 12-17 in British Columbia, that's 1 in 4, are considered overweight or obese. This statistic rises to 1 in 3 youth in Canada.

Canadian dietitians recommend no more than 13 teaspoons of added sugar per day, yet a single Energy Drink contains not only 13-15 teaspoons of added sugar, but a 140-160mg of caffeine.   As a parent who doesn't want a kid having access to alcohol or cigarettes, I feel it is just as important that they don't have access to these products.  A ban on the sale of Energy Drinks to minors under the age of 16 is not only sensible, but in the best interest of our children's health. 

 The current provincial health policy states that their focus is on upstream solutions and providing preventative and protective policies.  This ban would be a positive and forward solution to some of our current health crises and enforce our commitment to protecting our children. 

The ban would include:

          +  Banning the sale of Energy Drinks to minors under the age of 16 in British Columbia.

          +  Increasing advertising on the negative side effects of consuming Energy Drinks

          +  Allowing parents to still have control and choice over their children's diet and nutrition. ( This ban would not control what parents chose to allow their kids in their own environment)

Please support our effort to ban the sale of energy drinks from minors under the age of 16 in British Columbia and sign this petition.