Published for the first time in more than a decade, new ABS data on food and nutrition released today shows while Australians are consuming less sugary drinks than in 2011-12, snack consumption is increasing, and consumption of fruit products is down.
According to the National Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey in 2023:
- In the 24 hours before being surveyed, a quarter (25%) of children aged 2-17 and almost a third (30%) of adults consumed sweetened beverages such as soft drinks, cordials, energy drinks and fruit and vegetable drinks.
- For those who consume sweetened beverages, the median volume consumed was 375 mL which is the equivalent to one can.
- Australians' median daily consumption of snack foods increased by 20% compared to 2011-12.
- Median consumption of fruit products and dishes decreased by 17% over the past decade
- On average one third (31%) of Australians’ daily energy intake came from discretionary food and drinks, higher in children over five years old, including biscuits, confectionery, pastries, processed meats, salty snack foods, sugary drinks and alcohol.
Quotes attributable to Jane Martin, Executive Manager, Food for Health Alliance:
“While there’s plenty of data in the ABS release today suggesting Australians are tending towards healthier drink options, now is not the time for Government to take the foot off the pedal when it comes to policies that will support and nudge Australians to healthier diets.”
“It’s encouraging to see fewer Australians drinking sugary drinks in 2023 compared with the 2011–12 dataset, suggesting we are concerned about sugar. But we still have one fifth of children and a third of adults consuming
these products which can contribute to dental decay, overweight and obesity, and type 2 diabetes.”
“We will continue to call for the Federal Government to introduce a heath levy on sugary drinks to accelerate behaviour change and set an incentive for drinks manufacturers to reformulate their products and cut the sugar
content, helping Australians live healthier lives.”
“Overweight and obesity is the leading risk factor for the disease burden in Australia, now overtaking tobacco use. As a public health community, we will continue to advocate to government to implement policies which make it easier for Australians to access and include more nutritious foods in their diets to support their overall health.”
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