The amount of sugar found in some brands of cordial and diluted juice drinks is the same as, or higher, than the amount found in fizzy drinks such as Coca-Cola and 7UP, new research has shown.

The findings from Safefood revealed that a 200ml serving of the popular juice drink, Capri Sun Apple & Blackcurrant, contained 20g of sugar. This is almost the same amount found in a 200ml serving of Coca-Cola, which contains 21.1g of sugar and 7UP, which contains 22.4g.

Furthermore, some popular supermarket brands of cordials and diluted juice drinks were found to contain even higher sugar levels, with some containing the equivalent of five cubes of sugar in only a small glass.

According to Dr Cliodhna Foley-Nolan of Safefood, ‘many parents may be under the impression that juice drinks that mention the term ‘fruit' are a healthier alternative for their children than fizzy drinks'. They may not release that these drinks are often very high in sugar as well.

Also commenting on this issue, obesity specialist, Prof Donal O'Shea, pointed out that there is now ‘clear evidence' of a link between the consumption of sugar-sweetened drinks and weight problems in children and teenagers. There is also evidence that if intake of these drinks is reduced, children can achieve a healthier weight.

"As parents, we tend to ignore the contribution of liquids to our kids daily calorie intake. We need to start viewing these drinks as ‘threats not treats' and certainly not something to be had everyday. Milk or water are best for our children," he said.

A recent survey by Safefood of 900 parents throughout Ireland revealed that almost half of children are drinking soft drinks at least once a day. It also found that almost one in three drink cordials with their meals.

"Reducing a child's intake of such drinks and replacing with water or milk would be a practical step," Dr Cliodhna Foley-Nolan commented.

Safefood's tips for dealing with sugary drinks are:
-Do not buy them in the first place. If they are not in the house, they cannot be consumed
-Do not offer soft drinks at mealtimes. Offer water instead
-If eating out, including at the cinema, offer water. Drinking a sugary drink with foods that are high in sugar or fat is like getting a double dose of sugar.

Safefood also reminded parents that a small 100ml glass of 100% fruit juice or a smoothie with no added sugar once a day counts as one of children's five a day.

For more information from Safefood on replacing sugary drinks, click here