In the United Kingdom, the Challenge 25 policy is an important measure aimed at preventing underage sales of alcohol by ensuring that anyone who appears under 25 is asked to provide identification to prove they are of legal drinking age. While this initiative plays a significant role in curbing underage drinking, its blanket application to non-alcoholic drinks - such as non-alcoholic beers, wines, and spirits - unnecessarily restricts the accessibility of these products to 16 and 17-year-olds.

Non-alcoholic beverages are defined by law as having an alcohol content of 0.5% ABV or less. These drinks are not meant to intoxicate and are often consumed for their flavour, not their alcoholic content. For many teenagers, these products serve as an introduction to social drinking environments in a safe and responsible manner. The application of Challenge 25 to these beverages undermines their potential benefits and hinders young people from making healthier choices during social occasions.

The current policy also places unnecessary burdens on retailers who must enforce ID checks regardless of the actual content of the drink, which can lead to confusion and frustration among both staff and customers. Moreover, it sends mixed messages about responsible consumption to young people who are otherwise legally permitted to purchase the same drinks with meals in restaurants, or to consume these drinks at home.

We urge policymakers to reconsider the application of Challenge 25 to non-alcoholic drinks and allow the sale of these products to individuals aged 16 and over. This change would not only align legal practices with consumer safety guidelines but also support young people's right to make informed and responsible drinking choices.

Please sign this petition to help create a more sensible and fair approach to the sale of non-alcoholic beverages in retail environments across the UK.