The growing epidemic of childhood obesity is deeply concerning, in the UK, 1 in 5 children aged 10–11 is now classified as obese. While efforts like the sugar tax and Soft Drinks Industry Levy have helped, they simply don’t go far enough. We urgently need to hold large corporations accountable for the sugar-laden drinks they produce and promote, especially to children.

My name is Carole Armitage, and I’m the founder of 80Noir Ultra and The Happy Cocoa Club a business rooted in using dark chocolate to improve physical and mental well-being. But as my journey evolved, I saw a much wider problem: sugary drinks are fuelling an alarming rise in obesity, type 2 diabetes, and preventable illnesses.

That’s why I’m calling for the Sugar Reduction in Beverages Act: legislation to limit sugar in all drinks (especially those aimed at children) to 15g or less per serving.

To show what’s possible, we’ve developed a brand-new kids' hot chocolate range that contains a maximum of just 7g of sugar per serving, using ethically sourced dark chocolate and natural sweetness without compromising on taste. It’s proof that healthy doesn’t have to be boring, and that big brands can do better if they care to.

Here’s the reality:

• The average hot chocolate or flavoured coffee contains 20g to 75g of sugar per serving.
• Government guidelines recommend no more than 19g/day for children aged 4–6, and 24g/day for those aged 7–10.
• Just one sugary drink can push a child over their daily limit.
• Meanwhile, over 4.9 million people in the UK are living with diabetes, and rates of cardiovascular and mental health issues continue to rise, many of which are directly linked to excessive sugar intake.

At 80Noir Ultra, we’re collaborating with respected universities to scientifically validate the health benefits of dark chocolate from gut health to cognitive performance. But change must happen beyond individual products.

I’ve reached out to every local councillor in my borough to raise awareness and push for action. But this needs a national voice.

Together, we can champion this legislation and reshape the future of children’s health.

If you believe in a future where healthier options are the norm, not the exception, and where companies are held accountable for what they sell, then please:

📢 Sign the petition
🤝 Share this with friends, parents, and schools
💬 Reach out if you'd like to collaborate

Let’s protect our children’s future, one cup (and one law) at a time.