JINTAMAS SAKSORNCHAI, Associated Press
Customers wait for their coffee outside a coffee shop in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)
BANGKOK (AP) — For many Thais, enjoying a meal often includes indulging in iced coffee or tea that is so sweet it could easily masquerade as dessert. In light of health concerns, the government is encouraging a shift toward reduced sugar consumption.
Starting Wednesday, nine leading coffee chains across Thailand have committed to halving the default sugar content in certain beverages as part of a government initiative aimed at curbing excessive sugar intake.
According to the Health Department, Thais consume an average of 21 teaspoons of sugar daily, which is more than three times the World Health Organization’s recommended intake of six teaspoons. Health officials emphasize that such high consumption levels raise the risk for obesity, diabetes, and other health issues.
This initiative marks the first significant effort to alter consumer behavior regarding sugar consumption, as noted by Amporn Benjaponpitak, the director general of the department.
Pakorn Tungkasereerak, the department’s deputy, revealed that data from 2025 indicates around 45% of Thais aged 15 and older are classified as obese, while 10% of the population is affected by diabetes.
Research conducted by the Bureau of Nutrition found that a 22-ounce (650-milliliter) iced coffee typically contains approximately nine teaspoons of sugar, while a 10-ounce (300-milliliter) bubble milk tea, known for its tapioca pearls, can contain up to 12 teaspoons.
Sirinya Kuiklang, an office worker, expressed her support for the changes, as she usually orders her drinks with only 25% of the standard sugar level. She acknowledges, however, that many others consume excessive sugar.
“It’s good for Thai people,” she remarked.
Another office worker, Porwares Tantikanpanit, mentioned that although he enjoys his non-coffee beverages at their current sweetness levels, he is open to adjustments if shops decrease the sugar content.
Implementing this policy may present challenges, as officials have indicated that each brand has the flexibility to apply the initiative in their own way.
Some customers have voiced confusion following social media announcements about the initiative, inquiring how to order drinks that meet their preferred sweetness. Several brands clarified that the sugar reduction applies only to specific items on their menus.
Key Takeaways
- The Thai government aims to reduce sugar consumption by partnering with major coffee chains.
- Nine coffee brands will cut the default sugar content in some drinks by half starting Wednesday.
- The average Thai consumes 21 teaspoons of sugar daily, significantly above the WHO’s recommended limit.
- Health officials highlight the risks associated with high sugar intake, including obesity and diabetes.
- Consumer behavior is expected to shift as a result of the initiative.
- Confusion remains among customers regarding how to adjust sugar levels in their orders.
FAQ
Why is the Thai government reducing sugar content in beverages?
The initiative aims to combat excessive sugar consumption, which poses health risks such as obesity and diabetes.
How much sugar do Thais consume on average?
Thais consume an average of 21 teaspoons of sugar daily, exceeding the WHO’s recommended limit of six teaspoons.
Will all drinks be affected by the sugar reduction policy?
No, the reduction applies only to specific menu items at participating coffee chains.
What are the potential benefits of this initiative?
By reducing sugar intake, the initiative could lower the risks associated with obesity and diabetes in the Thai population.
In conclusion, this government initiative is a pivotal step towards healthier beverage choices for Thais. With support from major coffee chains, there is potential for significant change in sugar consumption habits across the nation.
