Portuguese health authorities are betting that many people are using more sugar than they mean to—or should—and are taking steps to help out.
The little packets of sugar served at bars, cafes and restaurants will be reduced by 2020 to 4 grams per packet. Those who want more will have to open a second pack; those who find themselves sweet enough with one will, in theory, be healthier.
It’s not the first time Portugal’s National Health Board has taken this step; in 2016 the packets were reduced from 8 grams to a maximum of 6. In the U.S., the usual packet is 1 teaspoon, or 4 grams. At the high end, in Poland some packets go up to 10 grams.
