THE Australian Medical Association (AMA) is calling for a tax on sugary drinks, as consumers have been sold a "fantasy" when opting for beverages advertised with reduced sugar.
It comes off the back of media reports this week that revealed that the sugar content in some of these drinks has in fact increased.
According to a report from 9 News, the amount of sugar in Fanta has increased by 60% since 2020 - there are now more than 10 teaspoons of sugar in a 600ml bottle of the orange fizzy drink.
"This is further evidence of the need for a tax on sugary drinks to encourage manufacturers to prioritise true reformulation efforts and provide consumers with healthier options," said AMA President Professor Steve Robson.
"As today's news shows, consumers have been bombarded with claims of reduced sugar when the sugar amount in some products has actually increased.
"How are consumers to know this is happening, when the big retailers' websites don't have the correct information or know the sugar has been secretly increased.
"The industry's sugar reduction pledge to reformulate isn't working...because it's voluntary, and its impact is severely limited with only four manufacturers signing up," he argued.
Robson this week argued for the tax when he launched the AMA's federal budget submission, which includes evidence that shows sugar taxes have proven to be effective in more than 100 other countries and jurisdictions.
"Our analysis shows a 20 percent health levy on sugary drinks could raise around $1 billion each year.
"This is money that could be invested into crucial health promotion campaigns, reducing pressure on our stretched health system," said Robson. JHM
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