Recommended daily sugar intake
On average, one can of soft drink contains 10 teaspoons of sugar. This is 1.5 times the recommended daily sugar intake by the WHO, which is 6 or less teaspoons (24 grams) of free sugar per day. This amount is equal to 5% of the average persons daily total energy intake (kJ). Our body uses this energy to keep our body functioning. Kilojoules are the measurement of energy from foods and drinks used in Australia. In some countries, calories are still used as the unit of measure. For reference, 8360kJ = 2000Kcal.
The average adult needs about 8,700 kJ a day to maintain a healthy weight.
Calculating sugar consumption based on 5% of 8,700 kJ* (daily total energy).
5% of 8700kJ
0.05 x 8700kJ = 435kJ
435kJ = 6.3 teaspoons of sugar per day
68kJ (approximate kilojoules in
1 teaspoon of sugar)
*This is based on an average. If you are looking for more information about what if right for you and your health, talk to your doctor or an accredited practicing dietician.