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Introduction. Energy drinks are a specific group of non-alcoholic beverages. They are consumed mainly by adolescents, often on a regular basis. Therefore, they pose a risk of side effects of bioactive substances (caffeine), that are contained in them. Energy drinks can also be a source of considerable amounts of added sugars. Their excessive amounts in the diet can lead to overweight and obesity. The aim of this study was to estimate the content of added sugars, then compare the results with the declarations of manufacturers, and finally determine the extent to which the tested energy drinks can implement nutritional standards for youth. Materials and methods. Analysis of eleven energy drinks purchased in grocery stores in Rzeszów was carried out. High performance liquid chromatography HPLC-ELSD was used. Results. Added sugar content ranged from 9.64 to 16.4 g per 100 ml energy drinks tested. In the case of energy drinks eight analytically determined the total sugar content was higher than the amount declared by the manufacturers. The highest non-compliance was 3.47 g/100 ml. For the three beverages results were lower than the declaration on the label, and the largest non-compliance was 3.66 g/100 ml. Conclusions. Energy drinks are a substantial source of added sugars. Their high supply is associated with the risk of overweight or obesity in adolescents, especially among middle school students. Energy drink consumption in this group is characterized by regularity and at the same time it is not identified as a health-threatening factor. Added sugars content of energy drinks and health risks associated with it should be the subject of educational activities conducted mainly in middle schools and among young athletes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]