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Reported by: Perrin Theocharides and Shamsu Zuha
Publish date: 9th Sep 2024
Read the brief here:
Problem Identification:
Affordable sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB) drive higher consumption, especially among low-income groups, increasing chronic disease risks.
In Australia, healthier beverages, like bottled water and low-sugar options, tend to be more expensive than sugary drinks.
This means that individuals, particularly those with limited financial resources, may be more inclined to choose SSBs than more nutritious options. This price disparity can contribute to poor dietary choices, potentially leading to adverse health outcomes such as obesity, diabetes, and other chronic conditions, while reinforcing inequities in public health.
Context:
Solution Identification:
Advice:
Download the 1-page policy brief PDF here:
Public Support:
Where to go to learn more:
Lived Experience
Angelina is a teenager that had a liking for sugar-sweetened beverages. She was able to consume enormous amounts of sugar-sweetened beverages due to how easy to access and affordable they were. As a result, her health significantly deteriorated. Angelina began to experience lethargy, loss of stamina and she was on the verge of developing obesity. Despite recommendations from others, she refused to quit the consumption of sweet drinks. Her parents were worried that without any restrictions placed on the sale of these drinks, Angelina would continue to consume them which wouldhave a detrimental impact on her health.
Reference list:
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Conflict of interest / acknowledgment statement:
N/a
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