How is climate change impacting sugar consumption in the United States?

According to the study, as temperatures rise in the U.S., Americans are drinking more sugary beverages and consuming more frozen desserts, leading to over 100 million pounds of additional sugar consumed annually compared to 15 years ago.

Which groups are most affected by the climate-driven increase in sugar intake?

The research found that low-income and less-educated Americans are disproportionately impacted, with the amount of added sugar consumed during hot weather several times higher for these households compared to the wealthiest.

What is the link between temperature, sugary drinks, and the obesity epidemic in the United States?

The study suggests that temperature-related thirst plays a significant role in America's obesity crisis, as poorer Americans are more likely to turn to sugary soft drinks to quench their thirst, increasing their diabetes risk by 29% with just one extra can per day.

Home / Health / Climate Change Fuels America's Sweet Tooth, Study Reveals

Climate Change Fuels America's Sweet Tooth, Study Reveals

8 Sep

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Summary

Hotter temperatures lead to increased sugary drink and dessert consumption
Low-income and less-educated Americans most affected by this trend
Over 100 million pounds of added sugar consumed annually due to climate change

Climate Change Fuels America's Sweet Tooth, Study Reveals

According to a study published in Nature Climate Change on September 8, 2025, global warming is fueling a surge in sugar consumption across the United States. As temperatures rise, Americans – especially those with lower incomes and less education – are drinking significantly more sugary beverages and consuming more frozen desserts.

The research team, comprising scientists from the U.S. and U.K., tracked weather conditions and consumer purchasing data from 2004 to 2019. They found that for every 1-degree Fahrenheit increase in temperature between 54°F and 86°F, the average American's daily sugar intake rises by 0.4 grams. This amounts to over 100 million pounds of additional sugar consumed nationwide each year compared to 15 years earlier.

The impact is most pronounced among poorer Americans, with just one extra can of sugary soda per day increasing the risk of diabetes by 29%. Researchers attribute this to the marketing and pricing of sugary drinks targeting disadvantaged communities, as well as limited access to clean drinking water. As the U.S. average annual temperature has risen by 2.2°F since 1895, the study warns that sugar consumption is likely to soar further in the coming years.

Disclaimer: This story has been auto-aggregated and auto-summarised by a computer program. This story has not been edited or created by the Feedzop team.