From June, it will be illegal to sell energy drinks to those under 18 – this is how home delivery will be controlled

By: Trademagazin Date: 2025. 05. 02. 11:51

Hungary’s Parliament has unanimously passed a bill that bans the sale of energy drinks to minors. The new legislation, effective from June, not only affects in-store purchases but also covers online and home delivery services. Major delivery platforms are already preparing for enforcement.

Submitted by KDNP MPs István Hollik and Lőrinc Nacsa, the law received broad cross-party support. Under the new rules, selling energy drinks to anyone under 18 will be treated the same as selling alcohol, tobacco, or adult products. Violators face strict penalties, including temporary bans from selling restricted goods—or even temporary closure of their business.

What Exactly Will Be Banned?

Not all caffeinated beverages will be affected. The specific ingredients and types of drinks subject to the ban will be defined by a government decree to be issued after the law is promulgated. This regulation will make it clear which drinks are off-limits to underage consumers.

Can the Ban Work for Home Delivery?

Pénzcentrum asked Hungary’s two largest delivery companies—Wolt and Foodora—how they plan to enforce the new rule. Both referred to their procedures for alcohol deliveries as a model.

Wolt:

Only users over 18 can create an account.
Once the government decree is in place, energy drinks will receive an 18+ category tag.
At checkout, a pop-up window will require buyers to confirm they are over 18.
Upon delivery, couriers will be responsible for verifying the recipient’s age, just like with alcohol.

Foodora:

When an order includes age-restricted items, users are notified within the app.
Couriers also receive a warning that the package contains a 18+ product.
If the recipient’s age is unclear, the courier must request ID.
No photos or data are taken—verification is visual only, to confirm the buyer is of legal age.

Retailers Also Preparing

The National Trade Association (OKSZ) told Telex that retailers are preparing using existing practices for regulated goods like alcohol and tobacco. The penalties for violations will follow the same legal framework. If a shop violates the ban, it may lose the right to sell alcohol, energy drinks, tobacco, and adult products for up to one year. Repeat offenders may be shut down for up to 30 days.

Rare Political Unity Behind the Law

The bill passed with 174 votes in favor, with no votes against and no abstentions. MPs from all major parties supported the legislation—including Fidesz–KDNP, Democratic Coalition (DK), MSZP, Momentum, Jobbik, Mi Hazánk, Dialogue, and independents. The measure was also backed by numerous professional and health organizations.