LONDON: The United Kingdom(UK) has launched a series of new measures aimed at tackling rising obesity rates, including the introduction of a sugar tax on milkshakes, packaged milk products, and sweetened drinks.
Under the new policy, the government has decided to reduce the sugar limit in beverages from 5 grams to 4.5 grams per 100 millilitres. Drinks containing more than 4.5 grams of sugar per 100 ml will be subject to the sugar tax.
Addressing Parliament, UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting said that obesity deprives children of the best start in life and disproportionately affects those from poorer backgrounds.
He noted that people suffering from obesity face lifelong health challenges, placing a significant financial burden on the government, with billions of pounds spent annually on treatment.
According to media reports, the tax will not apply to “open-cup” drinks sold at cafés and markets. The new sugar tax will come into effect on 1 January 2028.