Thai Government Launches Initiative To Cut Default Sugar Content In Iced Coffee With 9 Major Coffee Chains Already Signing On – CoffeeTalk

The Thai government is addressing the health risks associated with excessive sugar consumption, a concern for many citizens who often enjoy iced coffee or sugary tea as part of their meals. As a part of a new initiative, starting Wednesday, nine major coffee chains have committed to halving the default sugar content in select beverages to combat rising sugar intake. Current statistics show that Thais consume an alarming average of 21 teaspoons of sugar daily, significantly surpassing the World Health Organization’s recommended limit of six teaspoons. This excessive intake poses heightened risks for obesity, diabetes, and other related diseases, prompting action from health authorities.

Amporn Benjaponpitak, the director general of the Health Department, highlighted that this marks the first substantial step toward altering consumers’ sugar consumption habits. Recent data revealed by Pakorn Tungkasereerak, the department’s deputy, indicated that approximately 45% of Thais aged 15 years and older are classified as obese, with 10% diagnosed with diabetes. Supporting these statistics, a survey conducted by the Bureau of Nutrition found that a 22-ounce iced coffee generally contains around nine teaspoons of sugar, while a 10-ounce bubble milk tea can have up to 12 teaspoons.

Reactions from the public show mixed responses; some individuals, like office worker Sirinya Kuiklang, have expressed approval of the change, stating her preference for drinks with only 25% of the standard sugar level. Other consumers, like Porwares Tantikanpanit, have indicated a willingness to adapt to lower sugar levels if introduced by local shops. Nonetheless, challenges remain in implementing this policy effectively. Officials note that individual brands can choose how to apply these changes, which may result in customer confusion about how to order their preferred sweetness levels. Several businesses have clarified that any sugar reductions will pertain only to select items on their menus.

Read More @ WOODTV