Children consuming one cake, chocolate and one or two biscuits a day could consume 1,326 calories and 92.5 grams of sugar, more than three times the recommended maximum amount, the researchers said.

The charity is calling on the Government to extend the levy on the soft drinks industry to cover these products and other high-sugar foods after a voluntary scheme failed to produce results.

Action on Sugar’s research and impact officer, Dr. Kawther Hashem said: “The truth is that sugary foods are almost unavoidable for most people. kids – they are easy to find in schools and are often the easiest choice on the way home.

“We are not doing enough to support children to keep their sugar intake within recommended guidelines. It is our duty to every child to make school a sanctuary free of unnecessary sugar so that they can grow up healthier, stronger and free from the risks of diet-related diseases.”

The charity also criticized the current School Meal Standards, which allow cakes and biscuits at lunch, and called for them to be banned in packed lunches and canteens.

‘Buying three snacks could exceed the limit’

Nutritionist Nourhan Barakat said: “Shocking but true, children can consume 92.5 grams of sugar and more than 1,300 calories from just 3 snacks. A cake for dessert at school, a chocolate bar on the way home and a few biscuits after dinner can keep sugar intake three times the daily limit.” can double it.

“If the sugar in these snacks were reduced by 20 percent, they would still be sweet, but with almost 20 grams less sugar consumed, it’s time for food companies to prioritize.” child health and cut out sugar in daily snacks.

Professor Graham MacGregor, chairman of Sugar Action, said: “While the previous government’s sugar reduction program failed due to a lack of meaningful enforcement, taxes on the soft drinks industry have proven that targeted, well-organised action works.

“This new Government now has a unique opportunity to prioritize: health “It will benefit the nation by implementing a clear and understandable approach to the food and drink industry that could save the NHS billions of dollars and save thousands of lives.”

A Sainsbury’s spokesperson said: “We offer our customers a range of snacks to choose from as part of a varied and balanced diet – from the award-winning Taste the Difference Free From Blueberry Muffin to low-calorie Sainsbury’s Stamford Street Co Raspberry and Vanilla Mini Rolls are available for just 85p.

“We label our products with nutritional values ​​to help our customers make informed decisions about the products they purchase.”

Opinion was requested from the Ministry of Health. Tesco, Asda, Aldi, Ritter Sport and Mars have been approached for comment.