Quebec becomes 1st Canadian province to ban energy drinks for youth

13-Jun-2026

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Quebec has become the first jurisdiction in North America to restrict access to caffeinated energy drinks — to people under 16, in this case.

Bill 9, which imposed age-based restrictions on the purchase of energy drinks, was adopted in the National Assembly on June 11.

Quebec Health Minister Sonia Bélanger told reporters that the new legislation is a "good start" and helped open up discussions around issues like sugary drinks for teenagers.

"What's important is that we were able to make a decision to protect youth under 16," Bélanger said.