The Dutch are consuming significantly more sugar than they realize, according to a recent study by the Dutch health charity Diabetes Fonds.
On average, Dutch citizens believe they consume the equivalent of 7.4 sugar cubes daily. However, research indicates the actual figure is over 14 sugar cubes per day, leading to an underestimation of their sugar intake by around 10 kilograms per person annually, broadcaster NOS reported on Friday.
Surprisingly, three-quarters of this sugar intake doesn’t come from obvious sources like sweets or biscuits. Instead, it is hidden in soups, sauces, and herb mixes, where it serves as a flavor enhancer. The study highlights that 75% of people who cook use ready-made sauces and spice mixes at least once a week, but seldom check the ingredient lists.
The Diabetes Fonds warns that 1.1 million people in the Netherlands currently suffer from type 2 diabetes, and an additional 1.4 million are at risk of developing the condition.