By JINTAMAS SAKSORNCHAI
BANGKOK (AP) — In Thailand, a meal often feels incomplete without a sugary iced coffee or tea that tastes more like dessert. However, in response to health concerns, the government is taking action to reduce sugar consumption.
Starting Wednesday, nine prominent coffee chains across the nation have committed to halving the default sugar content in selected drinks as part of a government initiative aimed at combating excessive sugar intake.
The Health Department reports that Thais consume an average of 21 teaspoons of sugar daily, which is over three times the World Health Organization’s recommended limit of six teaspoons. Health officials warn that such high sugar consumption elevates the risk of obesity, diabetes, and other related diseases.
Amporn Benjaponpitak, the director general of the Health Department, emphasized that this initiative marks a crucial step towards changing consumer behavior regarding sugar intake.
According to Pakorn Tungkasereerak, the department’s deputy, data from 2025 indicate that approximately 45% of Thais aged 15 and older are obese, while about 10% of the population lives with diabetes.
A survey by the Bureau of Nutrition found that a 22-ounce (650-milliliter) iced coffee contains around nine teaspoons of sugar. In contrast, a 10-ounce (300-milliliter) serving of bubble milk tea, known for its tapioca pearls, can hold as much as 12 teaspoons.
Sirinya Kuiklang, an office worker, supports the changes, as she already prefers her drinks with just 25% of the standard sugar level, acknowledging that many people consume too much sugar.
“It’s good for Thai people,” she stated.
Another office worker, Porwares Tantikanpanit, expressed his enjoyment of non-coffee beverages at their current sweetness but is open to adjusting his order if shops reduce the sugar content.
Despite the good intentions behind the initiative, implementing the policy may be challenging. Each brand has been given the flexibility to apply the changes as they see fit.
Some customers have voiced confusion on social media about how to request drinks at their preferred sweetness level, with several brands clarifying that the sugar reduction applies only to select menu items.
Key Takeaways
- The Thai government aims to reduce sugar consumption through a new initiative involving major coffee chains.
- Nine coffee chains will cut default sugar content in some drinks by 50% starting Wednesday.
- Thais currently consume an average of 21 teaspoons of sugar daily, significantly above WHO recommendations.
- Obesity and diabetes rates are high among the Thai population, prompting concerns about health impacts.
- Consumers are expressing mixed reactions, with some supportive of reduced sweetness and others seeking clarity on sugar levels.
FAQ
Why is the government changing the sugar content in beverages?
The government aims to address rising health concerns related to excessive sugar intake among the Thai population.
Which coffee chains are participating in the sugar reduction initiative?
Nine major coffee chains across Thailand have pledged to lower sugar levels in their drinks.
Will all drinks have reduced sugar content?
No, the reduction applies to selected menu items at each brand’s discretion.
What has been the public’s reaction to this initiative?
Some consumers support the changes, while others express confusion regarding how to adjust their orders.
What is the current average sugar consumption in Thailand?
Thais consume an average of 21 teaspoons of sugar per day, well above the WHO’s recommended limit.
