How Much Sugar Is in Your Favourite Drinks? A Guide for Seniors in Singapore

In Singapore, hawker centres are a beloved part of our culture, offering a variety of delicious drinks that many seniors enjoy. Whether it’s a hot cup of Kopi, a refreshing glass of Milo, or a soothing Teh tarik, these drinks are the staple of every Singaporean. But how much sugar is in these drinks? 

Let’s examine the sugar content of these local favourites and explore their healthier alternatives.

1.  Kopi C

One of the most popular drinks at any hawker centre, Kopi C is a classic choice for those who like strong and creamy coffee. However, a typical cup of Kopi C can contain about 30-35 grams of sugar, equivalent to about 7 teaspoons. That’s already over the daily recommended sugar intake for most seniors!

Healthier Alternative: If you still crave the flavour of Kopi C, consider opting for Kopi O kosong, which is essentially black coffee without sugar or condensed milk. Switch to low-fat or skimmed milk to reduce fat intake while keeping that creamy texture.

2.  Teh Tarik

Another favourite drink at hawker centres is Teh Tarik, a tea that’s frothed and sweetened with condensed milk. A standard cup of Teh Tarik contains around 20-25 grams of sugar, which adds up to about 5 teaspoons, making it a sugary indulgence for most.

Healthier Alternative: Opt for Teh O Kosong, a version without milk and sugar, or ask for Teh Siu Dai (with less sugar) to reduce the sugar content while retaining its flavour!

3.  Milo Dinosaur

Milo is a well-loved drink in Singapore, enjoyed by both the young and the elderly. However, the popular version called Milo Dinosaur, which is Milo topped with an additional spoonful of undissolved Milo powder, can contain an alarming 40-50 grams of sugar—that’s about 10 teaspoons of sugar!

Healthier Alternative: For a less sugary option, choose Milo kosong, made without condensed milk or added sugar. You can also make your version at home, controlling the amount of sugar you prefer.

4.  Bandung

Bandung is another crowd favourite, a sweet and creamy rose syrup drink. However, a glass of Bandung typically contains 30-40 grams of sugar or about 8 teaspoons. 

Healthier Alternative: If you still want the taste of Bandung without all the sugar, try asking for a Bandung Siu Dai version.

For seniors, managing sugar intake is crucial. Excess sugar can lead to weight gain, which puts pressure on the joints, increases the risk of heart disease, and worsens existing health conditions like diabetes. Read our article here on cutting out sugar and salt in our diets. The Health Promotion Board (HPB) recommends that adults consume no more than 8 to 11 teaspoons of sugar, approximately 40 to 55 grams. Additionally, seniors can use the HPB’s Healthy 365 App to track their daily sugar consumption and earn rewards for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. By learning about the sugar content in our food, we can make mindful decisions to control our diets and maintain our health.