The Impulso Podcast E65: Will health labels reduce bubble tea consumption?
Mar 8, 2024
Discussion of Shanghai adopting Nutri-Grade style nutritional labels for bubble tea. Comparison of Singapore’s A–D system and which drinks fall into low grades. Debate over whether labels shift consumer habits or spur product innovation. Operational and compliance challenges for chains and stalls are explored. Consideration of possible unintended effects on consumption and marketing.
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Nutri-Grade Ratings Explained
- Nutri-Grade labels rate drinks A–D using sugar and saturated fat thresholds set by Singapore's Health Promotion Board.
- Labels became mandatory for packaged drinks in 2022 and extended to freshly prepared drinks in 2023 to inform consumers.
Executive Views On Level Playing Field
- A senior beverage executive said a common standard levels the playing field and shifts competition to product innovation.
- He argued R&D can produce better taste with less sugar so mandates can benefit capable firms.
Daily Drinker Cuts Sugar
- Sabrina shares her personal bubble tea habits: she drinks bubble tea three to four times a week and reduced sugar from 50% to 25%.
- She notes labels show ratings only for default recipes, not custom sugar levels, creating uncertainty for consumers.