饮料消费转向“无糖”“零卡” “喝下去的糖”健康风险凸显

Core Viewpoint - The increasing health awareness among consumers is shifting beverage consumption patterns, yet the risks associated with sugar intake, particularly from sugary drinks, remain significant [1][2][4]. Group 1: Consumption Trends - The consumption of sugary beverages in China is stabilizing overall, with a notable shift towards healthier options like unsweetened tea and functional drinks, which have seen a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 90% in the past three years [2][4]. - In 2024, the total beverage production in China is expected to grow by 7.5%, with traditional high-sugar beverages declining in market share [2][4]. - The average daily intake of added sugars among urban residents aged 3 and above is reported at 9.1 grams, which is lower than many countries, but the per capita sugar consumption has increased from 16 grams to 35 grams over the past 20 years [3][4]. Group 2: Health Risks of Sugary Beverages - The average daily consumption of sugary drinks is 189 grams for children and adolescents, and 174 grams for adults, with many unaware of the high sugar content in seemingly healthy options like sports drinks and 100% fruit juices [4][5]. - Research indicates that for every additional 355 milliliters of sugary drinks consumed daily, the risk of developing type 2 diabetes increases by 25% [7]. - The consumption of sugary beverages is linked to significant health risks, including a high incidence of deaths related to ischemic heart disease and diabetes, with approximately 46,634 deaths attributed to high sugary drink intake in 2019 [7][8]. Group 3: Misconceptions and Awareness - Despite increased awareness of health risks, there are still misconceptions regarding the sugar content in beverages perceived as healthy, leading to continued high consumption of these drinks [5][6]. - The distinction between whole fruits and fruit juices, as well as between milk and sugary dairy drinks, is often not clearly communicated, resulting in a lack of understanding of the associated health risks [5][6]. - There is a growing concern that there is "almost no safe threshold" for sugary drink consumption, meaning that any intake can increase the risk of metabolic issues, particularly when these drinks are a primary source of added sugars [9].