Statement: Sweetened beverages study

The Australian Beverages Council notes the recent journal reporting of a study alleging a link between sweetened beverages and atrial fibrillation. Our Members’ beverages are subject to extensive Australian and international standards that ensure they are safe to consume – the authors of this study acknowledge that their research does not confirm otherwise. Low- and non-sugar sweeteners have been approved by food safety agencies around the world, and a robust body of scientific evidence demonstrates that these ingredients may even benefit heart health. The Australian beverage industry is committed to innovation and working to reduce the sugar that people consume from beverages by introducing more options with low and no-sugar.