From September 2015, Tesco, the UK's largest supermarket chain, is ceasing Ribena, Capri-Sun and Rubicon sugar-containing children's drinks in foil and cardboard packages. The reasons are the high sugar content in these drinks and, as a result, a threat to the health of children and a high risk of obesity.
These drinks are very popular with parents and are offered by supermarkets as a fun and convenient takeaway offering, a source of daily vitamin C for kids. However, 330ml of Capri-Sun orange juice contains 33g of sugar, double the NHS (National Health Service) recommended daily allowance for 4-6 year olds (19g) and well above the limit for 7-10 year olds ( 24 g).
Tesco made the decision under intense pressure from campaign groups such as Action on Sugar after claims that one in four children in the UK is overweight or obese, ranking it second in the world. indicator. Sugar-free drinks, as well as large bottles for adults, will continue to be available on the shelves.
Kawther Hashem, nutritionist and researcher for Action on Sugar, said: “Our advice is to eat fruit, not drink juice. Juice should be consumed on special occasions, but not as a daily drink. These processed drinks are loaded with sugar and calories and lack the nutritional value of fresh fruits and vegetables.”
This news caused both positive and negative feedback from buyers. Many have been pleased with the concern of the supermarket chain for the health of children and are waiting for the same steps in relation to other unhealthy products. However, others did not like this idea and organized campaigns on Twitter #saveourribena (“Save our Ribena”), accusing the supermarket of corporate hypocrisy. Well, let's wait and see.