Amman, April 29 (Petra) -- The Jordan Food and Drug Administration (JFDA) on Wednesday issued a strict directive regulating the trade of energy drinks and blended juices containing high caffeine levels, citing potential risks to cardiovascular health and general public safety for minors.

The regulatory body confirmed that the sale, distribution, and consumption of energy drinks are strictly prohibited for individuals under the age of 18. The move follows growing medical concerns regarding the high concentration of stimulants in these beverages and their impact on younger consumers.

Rana Obeidat, Director General of the JFDA, stated that food establishments are now required to physically separate energy drinks from standard juices and other beverages on store shelves. Retailers must also display prominent 20 cm by 10 cm warning labels on refrigerators, clearly stating the ban on sales to minors.

The JFDA is coordinating with the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Supply’s Market Surveillance Department to monitor commercial compliance. Obeidat warned that businesses failing to adhere to the new display and sale requirements would face legal action. Furthermore, the agency has collaborated with the Ministry of Education to ensure school canteens strictly enforce the ban on these products.

The crackdown extends to marketing and advertising. The JFDA announced it is monitoring promotional campaigns to prevent unscientific or misleading claims that encourage excessive consumption.

"These measures are part of a regulatory policy aimed at enhancing health awareness and curbing the uninformed consumption of energy drinks," Obeidat said, adding that the agency remains committed to ensuring consumer safety through continuous oversight of the food and beverage sector.

//Petra// AF