Overview
- CDU delegates in Stuttgart rejected Schleswig-Holstein’s motion for a tiered levy on sugary beverages and a 16-plus sales age for energy drinks.
- Daniel Günther said the proposal is not finished and announced a Bundesrat initiative, citing signs of support from other states.
- Federal Nutrition Minister Alois Rainer of the CSU and CDU economic voices oppose a levy, arguing for education and warning of burdens on consumers and industry.
- Forty-six organizations, including the Bundesärztekammer, Marburger Bund and Foodwatch, urged support for a producer levy, and doctors labeled the party’s rejection a missed prevention chance.
- Proponents point to WHO guidance, international examples such as the UK and an estimate of about €12 billion a year in sugar-related health costs, while official data show 7.7 billion liters of sugary drinks produced in 2024, roughly 93 liters per person.