Understanding consumption patterns of sugar-sweetened beverages across stages of adolescence in Mumbai city, India: an exploratory cross-sectional study for insights to develop innovative sugar reduction strategies

High consumption of Sugar-sweetened Beverages (SSBs) among adolescents is a growing public health concern because it contributes to obesity and other metabolic health risks. However, evidence comparing SSBSs consumption patterns between early and late adolescents remains limited. Therefore, this study aimed to compare SSBs consumption between early and late adolescents. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 300 adolescents; 150 early adolescents (Group1:10–15 years), and 150 late adolescents (Group2:16–19 years). Data on SSBs purchase and consumption patterns were gathered using a validated Beverage Intake Questionnaire (BEVQ-15). Sweet Tea (Group 1–40% & Group 2–34.7%), Sweet Coffee (Group 1–25.4% & Group 2–28%), Whole Milk with added sugar (Group 1–25.3% & Group 2–24.6%) were the highest consumed SSBSs daily. Whereas, 100% Fruit Juice (Group 1–50.6% & Group 2–40%), Soft Drinks (Group 1–44% & Group 2–39.3%), and Sweetened Juices (Group 1–32.6% & Group 2–41%) were consumed weekly. Group 2 consumed SSBSs like Sweet Tea (21.3%), Energy/sports Drinks (9.4%), and artificially sweetened drinks like Diet-Coke (14.7%) significantly more on daily/weekly basis (p = 0.01, 0.002 & 0.00 respectively). Taste emerged as a statistically significant reason for consuming SSBs among Group 1 (64%) and Flavor among Group 2 (36%) (p = 0.00). Similarly, shops nearby home was the frequent place of purchasing SSBs for Group 2 (50%), while Supermarkets and Online sites were the preferred places by Group 1 (55%) with a significance of p = 0.00. BMI increased significantly with the increased consumption of some SSBs (p < 0.05). In this convenience sample, high SSBs consumption among adolescents and its positive association with BMI underscores the need for age-specific health education and targeted public health strategies to promote healthier beverage choices and reduce sugar intake. • What is Already Known - In the Light of link between consumption of SSBs and its health consequences, many measures can be taken in order to reduce its consumption. • What this study adds - The findings of the current study highlight the specific locations and purchasing motivations associated with increased consumption of SSBs among teenagers, providing valuable insights for future interventions.