FDF response to WHO draft guidance on sugars intakes
12 March 2014
FDF response to WHO draft guidance on sugars intakes
Responding to the draft World Health Organisation (WHO) draft guidance on sugars intake, Barbara Gallani, Director of Regulation, Science Health at the Food and Drink Federation, said: “The main recommendation in the draft guidance that WHO has published for public consultation today supports the existing UK policy on sugars, that intake of free sugars should not exceed 10% of total energy. This guidance, which, like the UK government's policy on sugars intakes, is solely based on studies on dental caries, emphasises the importance of dental hygiene.
“Where weight gain is referenced in the draft guidance, this too supports current UK government policy and industry action to reduce calories in the diet. Excess calories, whether from fat, sugars or other nutrients, can result in weight gain which is why UK food and drink producers are working to reduce calories in their products, many doing so under the UK government's Responsibility Deal calorie reduction pledge.
“Where a conditional recommendation of a further reduction of sugars intake to below 5% of total energy is made, the report cautions that there is greater uncertainty about the quality of the underpinning science base. WHO emphasise the need for 'substantial debate and involvement of stakeholders before this recommendation can be adopted as policy'.
"In the UK, the Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition, an independent committee which advises Public Health England and other government agencies and departments, will publish its comprehensive review of carbohydrates, including sugars, in the diet. The findings from this comprehensive study will inform policy decisions.”
More information
For more information, please contact Anna Taylor and Avni Raval on 020 7420 7118/31
For FDF's policy positions and background on key issues, go to our Policy section.
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