Parents urged to offer healthy snacks

THE average British child has consumed 18 years’ worth of sugar by the age of 10, health bosses have warned.

An average 10-year-old is eating the equivalent of 14 sugar cubes a day, eight above the maximum recommended amount of six for their age.

The Public Health England data is based on the average intake of those aged two to 18.

With children eating 2800 sugar cubes a year more than the advised amount, PHE say trading junk food for healthier snacks could remove 2500 cubes a year from a child’s diet.

Dr Alison Tedstone, of PHE, said: “Parents can take action now.

“By making simple swaps, children can have healthier versions of foods and BY MARTIN BAGOT drinks, while significantly reducing their sugar intake.” Caroline Cerny, of Obesity Health Alliance, said the PHE figures “highlight the need for urgent action”. She added: “Children are bombarded by adverts and promotions for junk food online, on TV and in our supermarkets. “Government proposals to restrict junk food marketing, tackle promotions, and ensure calorie labelling in cafes and restaurants will make progress. “But the food industry must also do their bit, cutting sugar levels from products.” The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health said half of children’s sugar intake comes from unhealthy snacks and drinks.

Number of sugar cubes above the advised levels that kids eat each day