Major tax changes expected on sugary drinks - as milkshakes and lattes targeted

Health Secretary Wes Streeting is preparing to announce plans to lower the threshold for the Soft Drinks Industry Levy, meaning more sugary beverages will be affected

The tax on sugary drinks will be widened to drive down obesity and protect children's health, the Mirror understands.

Health Secretary Wes Streeting is preparing to announce plans to lower the threshold for the Soft Drinks Industry Levy from 5g to 4.5g of sugar per 100ml, meaning more beverages will be affected unless manufacturers slash sugar levels. Milkshakes and pre-packaged coffees will also be included for the first time as an exemption on milk-based drinks is expected to be ditched.

The changes are set to kick in from January 2028 - putting manufacturers on notice to reduce the sugar content in their drinks or fac