Sofia, Bulgaria – A recent nationally representative study has raised alarms over the dietary habits of children in Bulgaria, revealing that half of the country’s children between the ages of 7 and 18 have consumed energy drinks.
Conducted by research agency Blue Point on behalf of Lidl Bulgaria, the study, part of the #FoodMeaning campaign, underscores the need for a national conversation on healthy eating habits.
The #FoodMeaning campaign, which runs in collaboration with the National Association “Practical Dietetics and Integrative Medicine” (NAPDIM), Medical University “Prof. Dr. P. Stoyanov” – Varna, and the National Association “Parents,” is designed to foster public dialogue about the importance of healthy eating.
The study, conducted from June to July 2024, surveyed 800 children across two age groups—7 to 13 years and 14 to 18 years—using both online and in-person methods.
Shocking Statistics
The findings reveal a worrying trend: half of the surveyed children admitted to having tried an energy drink at least once.
The younger age group, children aged 7 to 13, showed that 32.5% had consumed energy drinks, while the figure spiked to 73% among the older teenagers aged 14 to 18.
The minimal difference in consumption between boys and girls shows that the issue is pervasive across gender lines, although boys displayed a slightly higher rate of consumption.
What is even more concerning is the frequency of consumption among older teens. The study revealed that 10.8% of those aged 14 to 18 drink energy drinks daily, while 21% consume them several times a week.
These figures point to a growing dependence on these highly caffeinated beverages among Bulgarian youth.
Health Concerns
Experts warn that the overconsumption of energy drinks by children and teenagers poses significant health risks.
Prof. Dr. Darina Naydenova, president of NAPDIM, emphasized that excessive consumption of energy drinks can lead to serious health problems, including cardiovascular and nervous system issues, mood disturbances, sleep problems, and potential metabolic disorders such as insulin resistance, overweight, and obesity.
“Energy drinks are not designed for children, yet many children are consuming them regularly.
The high caffeine and sugar content in these drinks can have detrimental effects on a developing body and mind,” Dr. Naydenova explained.
The study builds on an earlier survey conducted in January 2024, which found that 68.4% of Bulgarian parents do not impose restrictions on their children’s diet.
This lack of parental regulation may be contributing to the increasing consumption of energy drinks and other unhealthy foods among young people.
Dietary Habits and Environmental Concerns
The study also explored broader eating habits, focusing on how children perceive healthy eating, their food consumption patterns, school meals, and their awareness of the relationship between diet and environmental issues.
The findings indicate a need for greater education on healthy eating, both at home and in schools.
Many children were found to have misconceptions about what constitutes a healthy diet, and there is a significant gap in knowledge regarding the environmental impact of certain food choices.
Public Response and Campaign Goals
In response to the study, the #FoodMeaning campaign aims to ignite a public conversation about these alarming trends and the importance of healthy eating.
Supported by experts in nutrition and dietetics, the campaign seeks to educate both children and parents about the dangers of poor dietary choices and encourage healthier habits.
“Lidl Bulgaria is committed to contributing to the well-being of Bulgarian children and families. This study serves as a wake-up call, and we are dedicated to raising awareness through the #FoodMeaning campaign,” said a Lidl Bulgaria spokesperson.
The campaign includes various initiatives, including educational programs in schools, workshops for parents, and a national media campaign to promote healthier food choices.
Looking Ahead
The full findings of the National Representative Survey on children’s eating habits will be released on September 18, 2024, as part of the ongoing “Nutrition Meaning” campaign.
These results are expected to provide a more detailed understanding of the challenges facing Bulgarian youth in relation to their diet and overall health.
In the meantime, health experts are calling for immediate action. They are urging parents to take a more active role in monitoring their children’s dietary habits, while schools are being encouraged to review their food offerings and promote healthier options.
The study’s revelations have already sparked debate among parents, health professionals, and policymakers about the need for stricter regulations on the marketing and sale of energy drinks to children.
As the #FoodMeaning campaign continues, it remains to be seen how Bulgaria will address this growing public health concern.