Eggs back on the breakfast menu following Government sugar advice

People may have to rethink their diet, including their breakfast options, as Government advisers call for the recommended daily intake of sugar to be halved. New guidelines suggest no more than 5% of daily calories coming from added sugar - about seven teaspoons. The Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN) is calling for the change in diet in order to reduce obesity risk and improve dental health.

The type of sugar being targeted is known as free sugar - all the different types of sugar in the diet, excluding the sugars that are found naturally in fruit and milk. The main sources of sugar in the diet are cereal, fruit juice, sweetened drinks, confectionery, and sugar added at the table, these include some popular family breakfast choices.

Eggs have already seen a surge in popularity in recent years as people recognise their health benefits. Egg consumption had declined consistently from the 1960s, until the launch of the British Lion scheme in 1998 halted the fall, with sales now on the rise again. In total, 32m eggs were eaten per day in the UK in 2014 and 11.7bn across the whole year. This new guidance looks set to increase their appeal even further as people look for lower sugar alternatives at breakfast.

Independent nutritionist, Cath MacDonald, said: “Eggs offer an excellent high protein alternative to some sugary breakfast options. Also, we know that if you eat eggs for breakfast, you’re less likely to overeat for the rest of the day*, which can further help in the fight against obesity. Some people clearly do need to cut down on sugary foods and increase their fibre intake, both of which can help towards a healthier lifestyle. Eating a boiled egg, scrambled eggs on wholemeal toast or an omelette, are all delicious, nutritious ‘no added sugar’ options that can be cooked in minutes, making them perfect breakfast options.”