A Calgary mother is calling for Alberta to ban the sale of energy drinks to anyone under 16, arguing the province’s lack of age restrictions leaves kids exposed to products that carry their own warning labels.
The push comes as Quebec considers similar limits following the death of a 15‑year‑old boy whose energy‑drink consumption interacted with his ADHD medication.
Jennifer Koo, a Calgary parent, has taken her advocacy a step further by developing a caffeine‑free alternative for youth with support from researchers at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology.
A coroner’s report in Quebec found that 15‑year‑old Zachary Miron died in January 2024 after caffeine from an energy drink triggered an arrhythmia when combined with his medication. His death prompted Quebec to study a ban on energy‑drink sales to those under 16.
Koo said the case reinforced her concerns.
“As a parent I felt crushed for Zachery’s parents,” she said. “I immediately felt a sense of validation for the path that I was on.”
Seeking a safer option for young people, Koo partnered with a research group at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology, led by business development manager Matt Labine. Labine said the team’s goal is to help clients reach “an alternative solution.”
Koo’s drink, called League, contains no caffeine, stimulants, or artificial sweeteners. She argues the issue isn’t only ingredients but dosage levels in many commercial energy drinks.
Health Canada requires cautionary labels on caffeinated energy drinks stating they are “not recommended for those under 14 years old,” yet Alberta has no restrictions on youth purchases.
Koo believes momentum could grow nationally if Quebec proceeds with its proposed ban, putting pressure on other provinces to act.
“That broader advocacy is absolutely on our road map,” she said.
Alberta’s Ministry of Primary and Preventative Health Services said it is not considering legislative or regulatory changes but is watching how other jurisdictions approach the issue.
