The range of ethnic minority communities we find in Britain today and their health has been influenced by the sugar industry. These influences are described as ‘the commercial determinants of heath’. Public health practice aims to improve people’s health and is increasingly paying attention to the commercial determinants. 

This project is investigating how public health approaches can better understand the commercial determinants in relation to sugar consumption. We aim to understand how the diverse practices of the sugar industries impact those from ethnic minority communities, especially ethnic minority women and those from deprived socio-economic backgrounds. In doing so, the project will bring deeper understanding of how racism relates to the commercial determinants of health. 

The ethnic minority communities that will be included in the project are South Asian communities, and Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities. This is because national epidemiological data on child dental health and obesity and malnutrition show people in these communities experience poorer sugar-related health.

How does sugar influence health?

Health professionals warn about the dangers of sugar consumption. Tooth decay, weight concerns, diabetes are all health concerns to be mindful of. However, the sweetness of sugar is also a source of joy and celebrations. These positive facets of cultures, care, and humanass that form part of overall health and wellbeing are under-explored in public health. So, we are exploring sugar and health holistically. 

We are asking: 

1. How can sugar consumption amongst Britain’s racialised minorities be understood within the wider social, political and historical context? 

2. Does sugar-related public health policy-making and practice overlook some people's lived experiences?  

3. Does wider attention need to be paid industry actors who may be influencing policymaking? 

By asking these questions we aim to have a broader understanding of sugar consumption and progress towards more equitable public health approaches. 

Ethical Approval 

The project has ethical approval from the University of Sheffield Research Ethics committee. 

Project Funding

The project is funded by the Wellcome Trust 

We are working with a range of people: ethnic minority communities, grassroots organisations, community researchers, policymakers, academics, public health and creative practitioners. Our work involves: discussions, interviews, attending public health and policy meetings, interviewing people and using creative methods to challenge dominant ways of understanding.