With a renewed conversation around health in America and addressing chronic disease, we kept a consistent drumbeat with policymakers, stakeholders, media and consumers to set the record straight: Calories from sugar-sweetened beverages are a small part of the diet – less than 6%, according to the U.S. Department of
Agriculture (USDA). And data from the past 20 years has shown us that obesity rates and soda consumption are not correlated. In fact, adult obesity is up 37.4% since 2000, beverage calories per serving are down 42%.i, ii This is a direct result of our companies’ efforts to provide more choices with less sugar. We have a strong record to stand on in the health arena, which we will continue to amplify and hone as policymakers at all levels of government pursue solutions in 2025.
Energy drinks have been safely enjoyed by billions of people for more than 30 years and demand remains strong. This year, we elevated our work to ensure policymakers and media understand that as the top makers of energy drinks, our members take our responsibility seriously when it comes to energy drink labeling transparency and empowering parents to make the right decisions for their families. That’s why we go beyond government-mandated labeling requirements and have set high standards for marketing, including not marketing to children. We focused throughout the year on telling this story to policymakers and media, including through our reinvigorated EnergyDrinkInformation.com website that differentiates our members as leaders.
In 2025, we will continue to drive the important message that consumers know what’s right for them and should be empowered to choose a beverage that best fuels their day. Restricting choice does not lead to better health outcomes, and this includes those receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. That’s why we’re working with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), members of Congress and the White House to shape a new Farm Bill that preserves the dignity and freedom of choice at the grocery store for every American. Along with a broad, bipartisan alliance, we successfully defeated attempts to introduce new restrictions that could have eliminated certain items from SNAP purchases including beverages, whole milk, white bread, lunch meat and sweetened yogurt. This alliance will be critical as we look to an extended Farm Bill and welcome a new administration and Congress in 2025.
Today’s beverage aisle provides Americans with more choices than ever before that are low in sugar or have no sugar at all. With sparkling and flavored waters, zero-sugar teas, sports drinks, mini-cans and more, consumers have a range of options from the more than 400 beverages with zero sugar. And families are taking advantage of these options – nearly 60% of the beverages Americans buy have zero sugar. That’s no coincidence. It’s a result of our ability and willingness to take thoughtful action, creating a significant impact over time.
