VicHealth applauds sugar drink phaseout

The chief executive officer of VicHealth has congratulated the City of Geelong for its plan to remove sugary drinks from all council and community-operated sport venues and facilities.

Last week, the city announced the staged withdrawal of sugar-sweetened beverages from all council-operated community facilities would start this month and be finished by July 2018, and the council would actively work with and support community-operated facilities to phase out the sale of sugar-sweetened beverages by the end of 2019.

In an opinion piece published online, Ms Rechter said it was great to learn that vending machines at community facilities and council worksites would have healthy drinks as up to 80 per cent of options.

She noted that sugar-loaded beverages, including sports and energy drinks, were the largest source of added sugars in the Australian diet.

“A regular 600ml bottle of soft drink contains a whopping 16 teaspoons of sugar, with about 11 in a sports drink.

“Sadly, we constantly find a smorgasbord of these drinks at venues where children and families regularly play and watch sport. This sends an unhealthy message to our kids; that sport and soft drinks go hand in hand.

“Removing sugary drinks at local sporting grounds and facilities will go a long way in improving the health of Geelong locals and encouraging healthy choices.

“VicHealth research also shows that when businesses promote healthier food and drink options, there is no decline in profits.

“I hope to see other local councils across Victoria follow Geelong’s lead.”