Foodwatch: Germans consume nearly 26 grams of sugar daily through drinks - Germany Tops Europe in Sugar Consumption—Will a Tax Curb the Habit?

Germans consume more sugar than any other major Western European nation, with nearly 26 grams daily from beverages alone. This places the country at the top of a new ranking, far ahead of neighbours like Austria and the Netherlands. Campaigners are now pushing for a tax on sugary drinks to cut intake and improve public health.

The latest figures come from market research firm Euromonitor, which tracked sugar content in the most widely sold drinks. Their analysis shows Germany leading with 25.8 grams of sugar per person per day from beverages. Austria follows at 23 grams, while the Netherlands ranks third with 20 grams. At the lower end, Southern European countries consume far less, with Italians drinking just 9.5 grams daily.

Foodwatch, a consumer rights group, has called the findings alarming. Luise Molling, a spokesperson, described Germany's position as a 'depressing first place' and warned about the health risks of liquid sugar. The organisation pointed to the UK as a success story, where a sugar tax in 2018 led to a 35% reduction in beverage sugar levels.

Foodwatch is now urging the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) to drop its opposition to a similar tax. Schleswig-Holstein's Minister-President Daniel Günther, a CDU member, proposed a federal sugar tax last year via the Bundesrat. But the party has yet to back the plan, despite growing pressure ahead of its federal conference.

The data highlights a stark divide in sugar consumption across Europe. While Germany remains the highest consumer, the UK's tax model shows how policy can drive change. Campaigners continue to push for action, arguing that a tax could help reduce intake and prevent long-term health problems.