Foodwatch: Germans consume nearly 26 grams of sugar daily through drinks - Germany's sugar habit tops Western Europe—will a tax finally curb it?

Germany leads Western Europe in sugar consumption from drinks, with nearly 26 grams per person each day. This figure places it well above neighbours like Austria and the Netherlands. Critics have now called for urgent action to cut intake, pointing to successful measures in the UK as a possible solution.

Data from Euromonitor shows Germans consume more sugar from beverages than any other major Western European country. Italy sits at the opposite end of the scale, with just 9.5 grams per day. Austria and the Netherlands follow Germany, with daily intakes of 23 grams and 20 grams respectively.

The UK has seen a sharp drop in sugar levels since introducing a tax in 2018. A can of Fanta there now contains 4.5 grams of sugar per 100 millilitres, compared to 7.6 grams in Germany. As a result, daily consumption in the UK has fallen to 16 grams per person. Germany, however, has no such tax, though sugar content in soft drinks still decreased by 10-15% by 2023 due to voluntary changes by manufacturers and EU regulations.

Pressure is growing on German policymakers to act. Last year, Schleswig-Holstein's Minister-President Daniel Günther proposed a federal sugar tax through the Bundesrat. Meanwhile, campaign group Foodwatch has accused the CDU of blocking progress. Luise Molling, a spokesperson for the organisation, called Germany's top ranking in sugar consumption a 'depressing first place' and warned of the health risks linked to liquid sugar. The group has repeatedly cited the UK's 35% reduction in sugar levels as proof that a tax could work.

Without a sugar tax, Germany's intake remains the highest in the region. Voluntary industry changes have cut some sugar, but campaigners argue stronger measures are needed. The debate now centres on whether political resistance will give way to policy action in the near future.