The Scottish Government are “considering” proposals that would see dietary energy intake recommendations reduced by a half.
The Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN) have urged the UK government to slash the daily dietary energy intake recommendations from 10% to 5%.
This would mean that an adult’s entire daily ration of sugar would be contained in one fizzy drink.
The nutrition experts made the recommendation after scrutinising thousands of research papers from scientists investigating sugar’s health effects.
Last night a Scottish Government spokesman said they welcomed the report and would “carefully consider” the recommendations made by SACN to Westminster.
SACN claims the amount “free sugar” contributes to dietary calories should be halved.
Last night, a Scottish Government spokesman said: “Today the Scottish Government launched our Supporting Healthy Choices Voluntary framework.
“This sets out specific voluntary action for the food industry, including manufacturers, retailers and caterers, to encourage and support consumers to make healthier choices.
“Key areas are re-balancing promotions, labelling and reformulation of products, including a focus to reduce calories, salt, fats and added sugar in foods.”
Free sugars are found in fruit juices, honey, syrups and sweetened drinks.
Rising obesity rates and type two diabetes diagnoses are known to be caused by high sugar diets.
The Scottish Government spokesman added: “We recognise that sugar consumption remains too high in Scotland.
“The action outlined in this framework supports the significant improvements that are needed to turn around our poor diet and help to reduce the incidence of preventable diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.”
The SACN report also recommends an increase in the daily intake of fibre from 18 grams to 30 grams.
The guidance from SACN will go out for public consultation, with a final report due to be published next March.
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