The most important single figure appears to be a recommendation by the World Health Organisation that consumers should ensure that added sugars account for no more than 10% of the calories in their diet.
In the US, the average was 15.7% from 1988 to 1994, rising to 16.8% from 1999 to 2004, and dropping to 14.9% between 2005 and 2010. That requires a further 33% reduction to meet the WHO target.
In the UK, the average has fallen some 12% in 10 years to 12.3%. That means a further 19% reduction is required.
Of course, these are averages; added sugars are not the same as total sugars; calories are only one element of healthy diets; and healthier lifestyles would make a difference too. Yet, the figures are all from public authorities and they deserve our attention.
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