Experts advocate for age restrictions on nonalcoholic drinks
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Some experts are advocating for restrictions on the sale of nonalcoholic beverages to minors, citing concerns that these products could normalize alcohol-related behaviors in young people. Emerging evidence suggests that nonalcoholic drinks may prime children to transition to alcoholic beverages later on. Advocates argue that while these beverages contain no alcohol, they mimic the taste and presentation of alcoholic drinks, potentially fostering early exposure and raising the risk of future alcohol use and dependency.
Source
Bowdring MA, Prochaska JJ. The Need for Age Restrictions on Sales of Nonalcoholic Beverages. JAMA Pediatr. 2024;178(9):851–852. doi:10.1001/jamapediatrics.2024.1883
Additional Reading
https://www.cnn.com/2024/09/20/health/age-restrictions-nonalcoholic-drinks-kids-wellness/index.html
https://www.foodandwine. com/target-carding-for-nonalcoholic-drinks-8628384