Recent research shows that consumer sentiment for sugary drinks and related marketing is dropping amid the increase in obesity awareness.
The study, published in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health, shows widespread public support for strong measures to curb the consumption of sugary and sweetened beverages.
In a survey of more than 2800 Australians, 83 per cent were in favour of better labelling of sugary drinks to warn consumers about added sugar content.
About 73 per cent agreed that such beverages should no longer be marketed to children, while 56 per cent believed that sugary drinks should have a health levy tax applied.
In addition, the survey showed that Australians support better labelling and restrictions on the marketing of non-sugar sweetened drinks such as “diet” and “zero” soft drinks. Many also called for improved labelling of fruit juice, which has high sugar content.
“Sugary drinks are a significant driver of obesity, which has recently overtaken tobacco as Australia’s biggest cause of preventable disease burden,” said Professor Caroline Miller, lead author and president of the Public Health Association of Australia (PHAA).
“Two-thirds of Australian adults are now overweight or living with obesity, along with one in four Australian children.
“This survey shows Australians overwhelmingly understand the need for change and are supportive of cost-effective steps that would help them make informed decisions about their beverage choices,” she continued.
Adjunct Professor Terry Slevin, PHAA CEO, added that Minister Mark Butler and the Albanese government should implement strong measures to tackle obesity, similar to how they curb smoking and vaping.
“These results make it clear there’s genuine community concern about unhealthy drinks and an expectation that the Australian Government will step in and show leadership on this issue,” Slevin stated.
