The Swiss canton of Uri is promoting the national „MAYbe less sugar“ campaign in May to raise awareness about excessive sugar consumption and its health risks.
According to estimates from the Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (BLV), the average daily sugar intake in Switzerland is about 110 grams per person, equivalent to roughly 27.5 sugar cubes.
This exceeds the recommended limits of 50 grams per day for adults and around 30 grams for children.
Data from the national „menuCH-Kids“ survey shows children and adolescents consume an average of 95 grams of sugary foods and desserts daily, about the amount in a standard chocolate bar.
Nearly half of young people consume sugary drinks at least once a week, with intake increasing among teenagers.
Excessive added sugar, especially in beverages and processed foods, contributes to overweight and raises the risk of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular conditions.
Over 2.2 million people in Switzerland are affected by such illnesses, including growing numbers of young people.
Approximately 13 percent of children and adolescents are overweight or obese, and about 10 percent show blood values indicating increased diabetes risk.
Sugar is often hidden in seemingly healthy products like fruit juices, yogurts, breakfast cereals, ready meals, and sauces, listed under names such as sucrose, glucose syrup, fructose syrup, or dextrose.
The campaign encourages reflection on personal habits and gradual adjustment through simple measures, such as replacing sugary drinks several times a week with water infused with fresh lemon.
Other suggestions include choosing plain yogurt with fresh fruit instead of flavored varieties and increasing vegetable and fruit intake—currently, only 18 percent of children and adolescents meet the recommended five daily portions.
Reported benefits include more stable energy, reduced cravings, lower cavity risk, and improved long-term health.
What is the goal of the „MAYbe less sugar“ campaign?
The campaign aims to encourage critical reflection on personal sugar consumption and support gradual reduction through practical, everyday changes rather than demanding complete abstinence.
How can consumers identify hidden sugar in food products?
Consumers can check ingredient lists for terms like sucrose, glucose syrup, fructose syrup, or dextrose, and leverage digital tools such as the Yuka app to assess products quickly and make informed choices.
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