Beverage trends analysis show shift in Australian drink choices

A 28-year analysis of Australian non-alcoholic beverage sales has found a marked shift in consumer preferences , with water and low and no sugar carbonated drinks now accounting for a larger share of the market. The research, conducted by FOODiQ Global and published in the journal Nutrients examined non-alcoholic water based beverage sales in Australia from 1997 to 2024, building on earlier published studies. It also included additional data on kombucha, flavoured milk, juice and fruit drinks from 2015 to 2024. The study was commissioned by the Australian Beverages Council and released at an industry briefing. Key findings included: Australians are buying fewer sugar sweetened carbonated drinks and more low and no sugar alternatives. Sugar sweetened water based beverages accounted for 70 per cent of the category in 1997, falling to 35 per cent in 2024. Low and no sugar products increased from 30 per cent to 65 per cent over the same period. Water has become a major driver of ...