More than eight in 10 people (84%) in the UK eat at least one sugary snack per day according to research on sugar consumption by the Oral Health Foundation.
A further 79% said they consumed up to three sugary snacks each day. Six in 10 (62%) respondents said their sugar intake came from food, including sweets, desserts and processed foods. Drinks such as tea, coffee, alcoholic beverages and fizzy drinks were contributing to 45% of respondents’ sugar intake.
Only 13% of those surveyed were taking active steps to reduce their sugar consumption. The Oral Health Foundation (OHF) dubbed this ‘alarming’, calling for new measures to combat the impact of sugar on dental health.
Chief executive Nigel Carter said: ‘Around one in three adults in the UK suffer from tooth decay, with sugar being the cause. We are in dire need of a stronger approach to take on the sugar industry and to promote a healthier, sugar-conscious society.’
‘Decisive action’ to control sugar consumption
Dr Carter suggested several possible changes to reduce the public’s sugar intake. These include:
- Stricter regulations on sugar content in processed foods
- Broadening the sugar tax to include more high-sugar foods and beverages
- Decisive action on sugar-based advertising.
He continued: ‘These policies push sugar off supermarket shelves, encourage manufacturers to cut sugar in their products, and reduces our exposure to sugar marketing, helping us to pursue healthier choices.’
Sugar ‘hidden in everyday foods’
The study also found disparities in sugar consumption based on age and region. One in 10 respondents in the 18 to 34 age group said they consume more than four sugary snacks daily. This is five times higher than in the over 55 age group.
Northern Ireland was found to have the highest sugar intake, with 19% of respondents consuming more than four sugary snacks in a day. This was much higher than the national average of 5%.
Dr Carter pointed to lack of awareness of sugar content to explain these high levels of consumption. He said: ‘Many people don’t realise how much sugar is hidden in everyday foods.
‘By learning to identify these hidden sugars, we can make healthier choices and protect our oral health. Start by reading labels carefully and opting for fresh, whole foods whenever possible.’
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