Foodwatch: Germans consume nearly 26 grams of sugar daily through drinks - Germany's sugar habit tops Western Europe as calls for a tax grow louder

Germany leads Western Europe in sugar consumption from drinks, with nearly 26 grams per person each day. This places it ahead of Austria, the Netherlands, and other major nations. Critics have now called for urgent action to cut intake and improve public health.

A recent report highlights Germany's high sugar intake from beverages, far above its neighbours. Austria follows with around 23 grams daily, while the Netherlands ranks third at 20 grams. Southern European countries, like Italy, consume far less—just 9.5 grams per person each day.

Last year, Schleswig-Holstein's Minister-President Daniel Günther proposed a federal sugar tax through the Bundesrat. The move came as campaigners pointed to the UK's success in reducing sugar levels. Since introducing its Soft Drinks Industry Levy in 2018, the UK has cut sugar in drinks by 35%. Daily intake per person fell from about 17 grams to roughly 12–13 grams by 2023.

Foodwatch, a consumer rights group, has pushed for a similar tax in Germany. Its director, Luise Molling, called the country's sugar consumption a 'depressing first place' and warned of rising healthcare costs. The group also urged the CDU to drop its opposition to the tax before its upcoming party conference.

In the UK, Fanta now contains 4.5 grams of sugar per 100 millilitres—far less than the 7.6 grams found in the German version. This reform has helped lower daily sugar intake to around 16 grams per person from drinks alone.

Germany remains the top consumer of sugary drinks in Western Europe, despite calls for policy changes. The UK's tax model has already shown measurable reductions in sugar intake. Campaigners continue to press for action, citing long-term health and economic benefits.