Industry labels Rethink Sugary Drinks Campaign "misguided"

"The past work of the alliance partners in addressing a range of public health issues should be acknowledged. In regards to their latest efforts the Industry thinks the campaign is misguided.

"Focusing on a single source of kilojoules in the diet hasn't worked in the past and ignores the concept of the total diet. No one food or beverage causes overweight or obesity. Consuming more kilojoules than what is burnt through physical activity is what leads to weight gain," said the council's CEO Geoff Parker.

"Over the last decade the Australian beverage industry has taken a proactive approach to being part of the solution in addressing the complex and multi-factorial issue of obesity. The industry has voluntarily: restricted marketing of sugar-sweetened beverages to children under 12 years of age; clearly labelled the kilojoules on a per serve basis on the front label of cans and bottles; reformulated products to include a wide range of low and no kilojoule options; restricted sales of sugar-sweetened soft drinks to primary schools and complied with all relevant school canteen guidelines."

Recently released results from the World Health Organisation (WHO) study on sugar intake and weight status concludes that it's the calories (kilojoules) that count and not anything unique about sugar, that contributes to weight gain. Swapping sugar for other forms of carbohydrate, such as that from starches and grains, will not stop weight gain.

"All kilojoules count regardless of the source. The industry produces a range of hydration options to suit everybody's lifestyle and all beverages can be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet supported by regular physical activity," Parker concluded.

Source: Australian Beverages Council