Red Bull and other caffeine-loaded energy drinks are taken by millions to pep them up when they are tired or hungover.

In bars and clubs, Red Bull is a popular mixer with vodka and other spirits. Sales in Britain top £200million a year.

The drink started as a tonic to keep Thai truck drivers and factory workers awake during long shifts.

The ban applies to drinks containing at least 150mg of caffeine per litre – including Red Bull (320mg), Monster (338mg), and Relentless (320mg).

Morrisons is believed to be the first major UK retailer to bring in this restriction, although similar bans have been introduced in Sweden, Denmark and France.