German sugar tax debate: Smoothies unhealthier than cola, government ignores science

A German opinion piece criticizes the government's planned sugar tax for exempting smoothies despite their high fructose content. The author argues that fruit sugar (fructose) in smoothies and fruit juices can be as harmful as added sugar in sodas. The article notes that consumption of industrially processed foods and fructose-rich beverages has risen over decades, while fructose-based sweeteners have become more common. It explains that fructose is a monosaccharide found naturally in fruits and honey, but when consumed in concentrated forms like juice or smoothies, it bypasses normal digestive regulation and can contribute to metabolic diseases. The author questions why the government would tax cola but not smoothies, suggesting a lack of scientific understanding or influence from food industry lobbying.