Health Experts Renew Calls for Sugar Reduction Laws Following Increase in Fanta and Sprite

Australian government urged to take action on sugar content in beverage

Health experts in Australia are calling for new legislation to address the rising sugar content in popular soft drink brands, Fanta and Sprite. The recent increase in sugar levels has reignited concerns about the impact of sugary beverages on public health and highlighted the need for stronger regulation in the food and drinks industry.

In response to mounting pressure, the government initiated the "partnership reformulation program" in July 2020, aiming to incentivize food companies to gradually reduce sugar, sodium, and saturated fats in their products. However, the voluntary nature of the program has led to limited participation, with only four manufacturers committing to reducing sugar content since 2018.

The Australian Beverages Council previously pledged to reduce sugar in beverages by 20% by 2025, urging the non-alcoholic beverage industry to join the initiative. Despite initial progress, recent revelations by News Corp indicate that Coca-Cola, the manufacturer of Fanta, has increased the sugar content in the soft drink from 4.5 grams per 100ml to 7.2 grams per 100ml, contrary to the industry commitment.

In addition to advocating for a sugar tax, health experts are urging the government to prioritize public health in trade agreements and policy decisions, regulate advertising more rigorously, improve food labeling, and strengthen dietary guidelines. These measures are seen as essential steps towards promoting healthier lifestyles and reducing the burden of preventable diseases associated with excessive sugar consumption.