Health groups call for ban on sugary drinks in schools

Nineteen public health organisations are urging all political parties to commit to making schools and early childhood education centres sugary drink-free. The proposal, published in the New Zealand Medical Journal on Friday, suggests banning drinks containing more than 5g of sugar per 100ml. Water, unflavoured milk, and zero-sugar alternatives would remain available under the proposed policy.

The call follows the Government's decision to shelve work on a similar proposal in 2024 because it did not align with its priorities. This follows a 2022 request for the Ministry of Education to investigate healthy-drink requirements in primary and secondary schools. The Ministry of Education stated that no further work is currently planned in this area.

Lead author Dr Gerhard Sundborn stated, "These products should not be available in schools". He noted that sugary drinks can contain up to 16 teaspoons of sugar in a single serving. The groups argue that these drinks contribute to dental decay, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and unhealthy weight gain.

Co-author Professor Bodo Lang said the proposed restrictions would preserve choice by allowing zero-sugar alternatives and other healthy drinks.

Compiled from reports by The Post and RNZ.