America is not the only nation concerned about sugar intake, according to a report from the Public Health England (PHE) in London.

“Eating too much sugar is harming our health; excess sugar and calorie intake leads to being overweight and obese and consequently having a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease and breast and colon cancer,” said Dr. Alison Tedstone, chief nutritionist at PHE. "Currently a third of our 10- and 11-year-olds are overweight or obese with the majority coming from the most deprived communities which is unacceptable.”

Tedstone said the paper, which sets out issues for discussion, proposes a partnership with the wider public health community and other key stakeholders on improving the nation’s diet.

“The British Dietetic Association (BDA) very much welcomes the call for a balanced discussion on how we can all work together and commit to helping people reduce their sugar intake. We look forward to working with a wide range of key stakeholders on taking this forward,” said Sian O’Shea, honorary chair of BDA.

Agreeing with O’Shea, Barbara Gallani, director of regulation, Science and Health at the Food and Drink Federation (FDF, said Britain’s food and drink manufacturers want to continue to play a part in helping consumers reduce their calorie intake and be more active and have committed to reducing calories in their products under the Department of Health’s Responsibility Deal.

“In some cases this has included a reduction in sugar as part of the wider calorie reduction plan. FDF would support constructive discussions and further collaborative work based on robust evidence,” said Gallani.

For more information, visit www.gov.uk.