LINE MAN Wongnai Reports Surge in Low-Sugar Beverage Orders Amid Health Initiative
Over half of Thai consumers reduce sugar in their drinks, with 'no sugar' orders rising by 160%.
LINE MAN Wongnai has announced the success of its initiative "Order Less Sweet - Health-Promoting Menu," reporting that over half of Thai consumers are now ordering drinks with reduced sugar levels.
This movement has led to a decrease in sugar consumption of more than 120 tons, with orders specifying 'no sugar' increasing by 160% year-on-year.
This initiative is part of a collaboration with the Department of Health, now entering its third year, aiming to expand its efforts into main meal options.
Launched two years ago, the initiative's goal is to simplify access to healthier food and beverage options while encouraging consumers to choose products with lower sugar, fat, and sodium through food delivery services.
Statistics indicate that Thai individuals still consume sugar and sodium beyond the limits set by the World Health Organization, contributing to roughly 400,000 annual deaths from non-communicable diseases (NCDs), which account for approximately 77% of total fatalities in the country.
Yod Chinsupakul, CEO of LINE MAN Wongnai, highlighted the tangible results of the partnership over the past two years, noting that over 60,000 restaurants across the nation have participated.
The data show that nearly 30 million beverages ordered were low-sugar, comprising 58% of total beverage orders.
The sharp increase in 'no sugar' orders is particularly noteworthy, showing a strong shift in consumer preferences toward healthier options.
Dr. Amporn Benjapolpitak, Director-General of the Department of Health, outlined upcoming phases of collaboration aimed at transitioning from beverage offerings to main meal options under the "Health-Promoting Menu" and "Alternative Menu" initiatives.
These initiatives focus on reducing sugar, fat, and sodium content, with LINE MAN Wongnai supporting restaurants in developing recipes that meet health safety criteria, including nutritional value, chemical safety, and pathogen prevention.
Restaurants interested in certification for healthy menu options can apply through the online certification program (Food4Health).
In the future, consumers will be able to order health-promoting dishes directly on the LINE MAN platform, along with promotional activities such as reduced seasoning packets for those aiming to decrease added flavors.
This effort is designed to increase awareness and foster healthier eating habits in the population.
During the recent signing ceremony of the memorandum of understanding between LINE MAN Wongnai and the Department of Health, recognition was given to restaurants participating in the initiative.
Notable recipients included "Ega," a community-sourced Thai restaurant under the brand It's Happened to be A Closet, and "Chaudramue," a long-established tea shop in Thailand, both emphasizing their commitment to enhancing consumer quality of life and collaborating with public and private sectors to promote health-conscious eating.