UK Plans Sugar Tax Expansion to Milk-Based Drinks

The UK government is proposing to expand the sugar tax to include pre-packaged milk-based drinks such as milkshakes, lattes, and non-dairy alternatives like oat and rice drinks. The consultation suggests lowering the sugar threshold for the tax from 5g to 4g per 100ml, which could affect 93% of pre-packed milk-based drinks unless they are reformulated. Since its introduction in 2018, the sugar tax has reportedly led to a 46% reduction in sugar content in soft drinks and raised £1.9 billion. Ministers argue the expanded levy could bring health and economic benefits, though critics question its effectiveness and warn of higher consumer costs, particularly during a cost of living crisis. The proposed changes are part of efforts to address rising obesity rates despite ongoing debate about the policy's impact. The government’s consultation on these changes will run until July, with a final decision yet to be made.