Media Contact: Sarah Baldauf, [email protected]
WASHINGTON, DC (October 17, 2016)—Today, PepsiCo, Inc. announced it will reformulate at least two-thirds of beverages sold globally so they have fewer than 100 calories from added sugars per 12-ounce serving.
In response, the following statement was released by William Dietz, MD, PhD, Chair and Director of the Sumner M. Redstone Global Center for Prevention and Wellness at Milken Institute School of Public Health at the George Washington University:
I’m encouraged by PepsiCo’s announcement. It comes on the heels of the FDA’s announcement earlier this year that nutrition facts labels on foods and beverages will soon list the amount of added sugars.
Sugar drinks are the top source of added sugars in the American diet, and we know that these drinks contribute to the development of obesity. PepsiCo’s plan to reduce added sugars to less than 100 calories per 12 oz. in the majority of its sugar drinks worldwide is a highly significant step to reducing the intake of added sugars.
Because PepsiCo distributes their products globally – and they are widely consumed – this reformulation is likely to have an impact on sugar intake and obesity. Therefore, I support their effort and strongly encourage other manufacturers of sugar drinks to follow suit.
I hope this is just the latest development in a growing trend toward changing the social norms around sugar drinks – by decreasing their sugar content, but also with continued efforts to decrease their consumption.
Dr. William Dietz is available for interviews. Please contact Sarah Baldauf, [email protected].