BANGKOK – In Thailand, a typical meal often feels incomplete without a sweetened iced coffee or tea. Recognizing the health implications, the government is encouraging a shift in sugar consumption habits.
Beginning Wednesday, nine prominent coffee chains across the nation have agreed to reduce the default sugar content in certain beverages by 50% as part of a government initiative focused on addressing high sugar intake.
According to the Health Department, Thais currently consume an average of 21 teaspoons of sugar daily—over three times the World Health Organization’s recommended limit of six teaspoons. Health officials warn that such excessive consumption elevates the risk of obesity, diabetes, and other health issues.
Amporn Benjaponpitak, director general of the department, described the initiative as the first substantial step toward altering consumers’ sugar consumption behaviors.
Pakorn Tungkasereerak, the department’s deputy, noted that estimates from 2025 indicate nearly 45% of Thais aged 15 and older are obese, and 10% of the population is living with diabetes.
A study conducted by the Bureau of Nutrition revealed that a 22-ounce (650-milliliter) iced coffee typically contains around nine teaspoons of sugar, while a 10-ounce (300-milliliter) serving of bubble milk tea—commonly recognized as boba—can have as much as 12 teaspoons.
Sirinya Kuiklang, an office worker, expressed her support for the changes. She frequently orders her drinks with just 25% of the standard sugar level but acknowledges that many others consume excessively sweet beverages.
“It’s good for Thai people,” she remarked.
Another office worker, Porwares Tantikanpanit, shared that he has enjoyed his current sugar levels in non-coffee drinks but is open to adjusting his preferences if the sweetness is reduced.
However, implementing this policy may present challenges. Officials have indicated that each brand can adopt the initiative according to their own discretion.
Some customers have raised questions on social media regarding how to order drinks tailored to their preferred sweetness levels. Several brands have clarified that the sugar reduction applies only to select items on their menus.
Key Takeaways
- Thais typically consume 21 teaspoons of sugar daily, significantly exceeding WHO guidelines.
- Nine coffee chains have committed to reducing the default sugar content in select drinks by 50%.
- Approximately 45% of Thais aged 15 and older are reportedly obese.
- Health officials caution that high sugar intake can lead to obesity and diabetes.
- Some consumers support the initiative, while others are unsure how to navigate the changes.
FAQ
What is the purpose of the sugar reduction initiative?
The initiative aims to lower sugar consumption among Thais, addressing health concerns linked to high sugar intake.
Which coffee chains are participating in the sugar reduction?
Nine major coffee chains across Thailand are involved in the initiative to cut sugar content in some of their beverages.
How much sugar do typical iced coffee and bubble tea contain?
A typical 22-ounce iced coffee contains around nine teaspoons of sugar, while a 10-ounce bubble milk tea can have up to 12 teaspoons.
Will the reduced sugar apply to all menu items?
No, the reduction applies only to selected drinks as determined by each participating brand.
In conclusion, the recent initiative marks a notable effort to promote healthier beverage options in Thailand. As consumers adapt to these changes, it could lead to a broader shift in sugar consumption behaviors nationwide.
