Energy Drinks-Trend or Awareness Choice? A Mini-Review

This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of knowledge on the regulation of energy drinks in European Union countries, their composition, and the potential impact of individual ingredients on human health. Data on the frequency and prevalence of consumption of these products, with particular emphasis on children and adolescents, were considered. The analyses presented in this review indicate differences in national regulations and the need for harmonization of the regulations at the European Union level. Gaps in the knowledge of the synergistic effects of energy drink ingredients and their long-term impact on health were also identified. Given the growing popularity of these products, especially among younger age groups, the need for further research and the implementation of effective legislative and educational strategies to reduce excessive consumption and minimize health risks was emphasized. In the context of further research, the need for interdisciplinary analyses considering psychological, social, and marketing aspects was proposed as well as the development of legislative recommendations, such as restriction of advertising aimed at young people, the obligation to place health warnings on packaging, and provision of transparent information about potential health effects. The inclusion of such recommendations could significantly increase the practical value of research on energy drinks and their importance for public health.