Concerns are rising over the sugar content in alcohol-free drinks as more people participate in Dry January. Some popular non-alcoholic beverages were found to have high sugar levels, comparable to consuming multiple KitKat bars. For instance, a 500ml bottle of Kopparberg Strawberry and Lime Alcohol Free contains around 12.6 teaspoons of sugar, while a 41.5g KitKat bar has five teaspoons. Even a 100ml glass of Kylie Minogue’s Alcohol-Free Sparkling Rose contains 1.25 teaspoons of sugar.
Health experts are cautioning the public about the sugar intake from these beverages, especially as an estimated 17.5 million Brits are avoiding alcohol this month. The NHS recommends limiting daily sugar intake to approximately seven teaspoons for adults. For example, Thatchers Zero Cider in 440ml cans has the equivalent of six teaspoons of sugar, while Inch’s 0.0% Alcohol Free Apple Cider contains 6.5 teaspoons per 440ml.
Sonia Pombo from Action on Salt and Sugar expressed concerns, stating that substituting alcohol with high-sugar drinks poses health risks and could confuse consumers striving to make healthier choices. Nutritionist Paul Evans emphasized the sugar content in these alcohol-free drinks, warning that they could lead to cravings, energy crashes, and weight gain.
Tam Fry from the National Obesity Forum highlighted the long-term effects of consuming sugary alcohol-free beverages, suggesting that the sugar content could have negative consequences over time.
Manufacturers of these drinks were contacted for comments regarding the issue.
