Foodwatch: Germans consume nearly 26 grams of sugar daily through drinks - Germany's sugar habit soars as neighbours slash intake with taxes

Germany leads Western Europe in sugar consumption from drinks, with nearly 26 grams per person each day. This figure places it well ahead of neighbours like Austria and the Netherlands. Meanwhile, countries with sugar taxes, such as the UK, have seen sharp declines in intake.

Between 2018 and 2024, sugar consumption from beverages rose by 5–10% in Germany, France, and the Netherlands—none of which impose sugar taxes. In contrast, the UK's 2018 levy slashed its per-person intake by 28%, dropping to 16 grams daily. Popular drinks there now contain far less sugar: Fanta, for example, has 4.5 grams per 100 millilitres, compared to 7.6 grams in Germany.

Southern European nations consume the least sugar from soft drinks. Italy sits at the bottom of the list, with just 9.5 grams per person per day. Austria follows Germany with 23 grams, while the Netherlands ranks third at 20 grams.

Pressure to act has grown in Germany. Last year, Schleswig-Holstein's Minister-President Daniel Günther (CDU) proposed a federal sugar tax via the Bundesrat. Foodwatch, a consumer rights group, has repeatedly called on the CDU to drop its opposition. Luise Molling of Foodwatch labelled Germany's top ranking in sugar consumption a 'depressing first place' and highlighted the health risks of excessive liquid sugar.

The UK's sugar tax has cut consumption and reduced sugar levels in drinks by 35%. Without similar measures, Germany's intake continues to climb. Campaigners insist policy changes are needed to address the health consequences of high sugar consumption.