Is the nanny state going too far? Plans to protect teens from drinking too much caffeine have caused criticism of government overreach.
Energy drink ban for under-16s planned
Energy rush: Boys drink more energy drinks than girls. They are linked to headaches, irritability and being excluded from school. Comprehension quiz
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Which word is the closest synonym for consume?
A: Buy
B: Spill
C: Make
D: Drink
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In the article, the word justified most nearly means:
A: Something that is popular with the public
B: Something that is brand new
C: Something that is done for a good and fair reason
D: Something that is difficult to understand
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Add the correct punctuation to the sentence below.
you can see the impact on health concentration and learning claims wes streeting
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According to the article, why are some critics against the ban on selling energy drinks to under-16s?
A: They think energy drinks are healthy for children.
B: They believe it is an example of a “nanny state” that takes away freedoms.
C: They think the ban will not work.
D: They believe restaurants will lose money.
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Name two well-known chefs mentioned in the article who want the government to do more to tackle unhealthy food and drink.
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PM Keir Starmer believes the “nanny state” is justified. According to the text, what is one reason he gives for this?
Answers
Tap to reveal
1. D 2. C 3. “You can see the impact on health, concentration and learning,” claims Wes Streeting. 4. B 5. Jamie Oliver and Jonathan Dimbleby. 6. Any one of the following: to cut waiting lists / to keep people healthy and in work / to secure the long-term future of the NHS.
Glossary
Caffeine - A drug that increases the activity of the brain and nervous system. It is found in many drinks, such as tea, coffee and soft drinks, as well as energy drinks, which have large amounts of caffeine.
Seizures - Temporary, uncontrolled electrical activity in the brain.
Labour - Britain's main left-of-centre political party.
Calories - The amount of energy released when your body digests and absorbs food. The more calories a food has, the more energy it gives your body.
Hospitality - The business of providing food, drink and accommodation.
Eating disorders - A range of mental health conditions which result in somebody having abnormal eating patterns, which then affects their physical and mental health.
Junk food - A term used to describe food that is high in sugar or fat without much nutritional value.
NHS - The National Health Service, the publicly funded healthcare system in the UK. The NHS was founded in 1948.