Foodwatch: Germans consume nearly 26 grams of sugar daily through drinks - Germany Tops Western Europe in Daily Sugar Intake From Drinks

Germany leads Western Europe in sugar consumption from drinks, with nearly 26 grams per person each day. This figure places it ahead of nine other major nations, according to market research by Euromonitor. Critics have now called for urgent action to reduce intake and improve public health.

Data from Euromonitor shows that Germans consume more sugar from beverages than any other large Western European country. Austria follows with around 23 grams daily, while the Netherlands ranks third at 20 grams. Southern European nations fare better, with Italians consuming the least at just 9.5 grams per day.

The findings have reignited debate over a sugar tax in Germany. Schleswig-Holstein's Minister-President Daniel Günther proposed a federal levy last year, but progress has stalled. Foodwatch, a consumer rights group, has pushed for the measure, pointing to the UK's success—a 35% sugar reduction in drinks since its 2018 tax. Luise Molling of Foodwatch described Germany's high consumption as a 'depressing first place' and warned of the health risks linked to liquid sugar.

Since 2018, Germany has seen a 10–15% drop in sugar content in drinks, with current levels averaging 4–6 grams per 100 millilitres. This improvement mirrors trends in Britain, France, and Portugal, where taxes and labelling systems drove reductions of 20–30%. Countries without strong policies, like Italy and Spain, have seen slower progress. Germany's approach so far relies on voluntary industry changes, with a target of under 5 grams per 100 millilitres by 2025. However, no national sugar tax exists yet.

Foodwatch has now urged the CDU to drop its opposition to a tax before its upcoming federal conference. The group argues that stronger measures are needed to match the progress seen in other European nations.

Germany's sugar intake from drinks remains the highest in Western Europe, despite some reductions in recent years. Without a national tax, the country continues to rely on industry cooperation and regional efforts. The debate over stricter policies is likely to persist as health advocates push for change.