M’sia to Introduce Drink Grading System Based on Sugar Content to Battle Diabetes

It’s no secret that many of us love to consume things that are filled with sugar.

Based on the findings of the National Health Morbidity Survey unveiled recently by the Ministry of Health, it is said that 2.5% of adults in the country (500,000 people) have 4 non-communicable diseases (NCD), including obesity and diabetes.

So, the Ministry has declared that it will wage a war on sugar, and its first step is to introduce a drinks grading system.

“In the nearest time, the Ministry of Health will introduce a system to grade drinks. This is because our neighbour, Singapore, classifies the sugar content in drinks into categories A, B, C and D.”

There was no specific period stated as to when the grading will start.

Minister Dr Dzulkefly continued that they will continue advocating for reducing everyone’s sugar intake, reported Berita Harian.

He adds that NHMS 2023 data has shown that 1 out of 2 Malaysians are obese and have excess weight. Individuals who have excess weight are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes among other non-communicable diseases.

Hence the minister says that a war on sugar is in line with reducing diabetes occurrence and other NCDs.

Singapore’s Nutri-grade system dictates that all drinks must be labelled with the grading system, even bubble milk tea or coffee at the local kopitiam.

Well, this is certainly a good way for us to be more aware of what we drink, as it’s way easier to drink than to eat.

Also read: M’sian Shares How She Lost Her Left Leg at 27yo After Eating Junk Food a Lot in Secondary School