Germany moves toward sugary‑drink tax targeting high‑sugar soft drinks

Foodwatch’s analysis shows that many popular German soft drinks contain sugar levels above the thresholds planned for a new sugary‑drink levy. The study highlights the Gönrgy Apfelringe drink, promoted by influencer MontanaBlack, with 13 g of sugar per 100 ml – enough to exceed the daily WHO limit in a single 500 ml can. Other brands such as Fanta, Sprite, Capri‑Sun and Benny Kids also rank above the proposed limit of 5 g / 100 ml.

The German government, as part of a health‑insurance‑savings bill, intends to tax drinks with 5‑8 g of sugar per 100 ml at €0.26 per litre and those with more than 8 g at €0.32 per litre, while drinks below 5 g remain exempt. Manufacturers will have to reformulate or absorb the tax, which could raise retail prices. Foodwatch expert Luise Molling called the high‑sugar content “no refreshment, it’s bodily injury”. A similar levy in the United Kingdom has already led to reduced sugar in several products.