Assessment of artificial and natural sweeteners present in packaged non-alcoholic beverages (NABs) sold on the Singapore market

• Main Authors: Rebecca Tan (Author), Sharon Chew (Author), Xenia Cleanthous (Author), Kimberley Anastasiou (Author), Paige G. Brooker (Author), Theresa Pham (Author), Benjamin P. C. Smith (Author)
• Format: Book
• Published: BMC, 2021-10-01T00:00:00Z.
• Subjects: article
• Online Access: Connect to this object online.

Summary

Abstract Background New Nutri-Grade labelling, aimed at reducing Singaporeans' sugar consumption will be implemented for all pre-packaged non-alcoholic beverages (NABs) sold in retail outlets from end 2021 onwards. It is expected such labelling will have a major impact on sugar content of beverages, as well as the replacement of sugar with non-caloric alternatives. Methods This study used product label data obtained from in-store surveys to investigate sugar and sweetener composition of NABs present on the Singapore market. Using this data we calculated products prospective Nutri-Grade classification in order to compare the current market composition with relation to sugar and/or sweetener use. Results Over half of the NABs on market were sweetened with sugar (59%) and were associated with less healthy Nutri-Grades of 'C' and 'D'. The use of natural sweeteners; Stevia and Monk fruit, remains low (6%). Conclusion With continuous efforts by the government in promoting public health nutrition, it is expected that there will be a greater usage of sugar substitutes among NABs in response to the upcoming implementation of Nutri-Grade and ever-fluctuating consumers' demands. The data collected in this study provide a point estimate (July-September 2020) on market composition and use of both sugar and artificial sweeteners in beverages prior to integration of the mandatory labelling requirements.

Item Description

10.1186/s12889-021-11924-0
1471-2458