Nordzucker Post 04/2021 - 21 July 2021

Sugar consumption in focus

Over the past two years, the European Association of Sugar Manufacturers (CEFS) has been working intensively on an investigation by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) into whether there should be a maximum tolerable intake for sugar. After several postponements, the presentation of the draft report has been announced for summer 2021.

A scientifically sound decision-making process is clearly supported by our industry association. The time taken to prepare this draft opinion speaks for a well-founded examination of the available research results.

The outcome of the EFSA study is nevertheless unpredictable, but it will have a major impact on the ongoing political debate around sugar and nutrition. Within the framework of a public consultation phase that will follow the publication of the draft opinion, we will carefully analyse the statements made and constructively contribute to the consultation. 

It is of particular importance to us that conclusions regarding sugar are placed in the overall context and to what extent other risk factors are referred to in the draft report. Evidence-based, i.e. scientifically reliable results and a consideration of the individual lifestyle and energy balance are particularly important for a proper understanding of the scientific recommendation and measures derived from it.

It is therefore all the more important that the scientific statements are presented correctly and completely in the public discussion. Generalisations and shortcuts will not help against tooth decay and overweight-related diseases such as obesity or type 2 diabetes. These issues are more related to individual lifestyle than to individual nutrients.