Australian drink companies cut sugar by 7%

In June 2018, Australia’s non-alcoholic beverage industry committed to reduce sugar across the industry by 20% by 2025. On behalf of the Australian Beverages Council, KPMG has provided the first report on the industry’s progress towards its sugar reduction pledge initiative, with a 7% reduction^[1] in sugar being announced today (25 November).

The signatories to the pledge, Asahi Lifestyle Beverages, Coca-Cola Amatil, Coca-Cola Australia and PepsiCo Australia, have contributed to the reduction in sugar across their portfolios, and more drinks companies are expected to join in the future.

Some of the initiatives implemented include: a reformulation on existing drinks; a cap on sugar content on all existing drinks and new recipes; increasing volume of low- and no-sugar drinks; smaller packs; and working with community groups to promote healthy choices.

Geoff Parker, Chief Executive Officer, Australian Beverages Council, said, “Today’s report is a further sign that the industry is serious about reducing sugar in beverages while continuing to offer greater choice of low-sugar drinks and many without any sugar at all.”

“The industry is achieving its intended sugar reduction targets and is already more than one-third of the way towards reducing sugar by 20% by 2025, but there’s still a lot of work ahead of us.”

The Australian Government supports the non-alcoholic beverage industry’s progress towards a 20% reduction in sugar by 2025 with Minister Hunt congratulating the industry on its progress in an announcement at Parliament House.

“The Morrison government supports pragmatic and appropriate action to tackle obesity, particularly through initiatives that support Australians to live healthier lives,” Minister Hunt said.

“The partnership between the industry and the Morrison government is a clear sign that collaborative solutions are available to tackle the complex issue of obesity by encouraging healthy diets.”

The Australian Beverages Council will continue to consult widely with a range of health, industry, supplier and government stakeholders to increase understanding of the commitment.

“The non-alcoholic beverage industry invites other sectors to join the Australian Beverages Council in reducing sugar while continuing to support choice and understanding of healthy lifestyles,” Parker added.

Today’s report demonstrates the industry’s long-term commitment to reduce sugar by 20% by 2025, complements a national obesity strategy, encourages all Australians to live healthier lives and reflects our contribution to combat obesity.

^{1. 7% reduction in sugar has been achieved by average reductions in total grams of sugar per 100 mL and includes the period 1 January 2015 to 31 December 2018.}

Image credit: ©stock.adobe.com/au/OlegDoroshin