UNS — TikTok has indeed become a ‘paradise’ for many viral foods/drinks. After the Dalgona candy boomed some time ago, now it is the turn for jumbo iced tea that managed to dominate FYP TikTok. The viral jumbo iced tea on this short video sharing platform stems from the creative idea of a number of users who made a parody of Noah’s “Yang Terdalam” video clip. Unlike the remake version played by Iqbal Ramadhan, TikTok users actually record themselves walking on the sidewalk carrying jumbo iced tea in a literal plastic wrap.
Although the jumbo iced tea that went viral on TikTok looks refreshing, it turns out that consuming this drink -especially with added sugar- is not good for health! This fact was explained by a nutritionist at Universitas Sebelas Maret Hospital (UNS Hospital) Surakarta, Asyari Mia Lestari, S.Gz. “The tannins and polyphenols content in tea can inhibit iron absorption in food. This condition can increase the risk of anemia,” she said when contacted by uns.ac.id, Saturday (8/1/2022).
Meanwhile, regarding the sugar content, Mia estimates that one pack of jumbo iced tea can contain approximately 2-3 liters of tea and 12-18 tablespoons of sugar, which is equivalent to 120-180 grams. This dose is, according to Mia, exceeding the recommended sugar intake regulated in the Regulation of the Minister of Health (Permenkes) No. 41 of 2014 concerning Guidelines for Balanced Nutrition. Therefore, she states that jumbo iced tea can increase the risk of obesity and diabetes mellitus because of its high sugar content.
“The limit on sugar consumption should not exceed 50 grams or around 4 (four) tablespoons a day,” explained Mia.
To reduce the risk of developing obesity and diabetes mellitus, she recommends a mixture of Food Additives (BTP) as a sweetener in jumbo iced tea. However, not all BTP can be mixed into jumbo iced tea. The reason is, BTP consists of natural and artificial sweeteners that some people cannot consume. She explained that natural sweetener has very low toxicity. Meanwhile, some artificial sweeteners can only be consumed with caution.
“For instance, saccharin should follow the 0-5 mg/kg body weight rule. Artificial sweeteners cannot be used in food products specifically intended for infants, children under three years of age, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers,” explained Mia. Further, Mia advises people to consume sugar through fruit, jam, honey, and other sweet foods or snacks to maintain daily sugar intake.
“Additionally, do not drink tea every day, or you can drink tea after 2-3 hours after a meal. Reduce the use of sugar, while sugar intake can be replaced with pieces of fruit or mint leaves. Keep the body from being dehydrated by drinking water as needed. For teenagers or adults, drink 8 (eight) glasses of water a day,” she concluded. Humas UNS
Reporter: YCA Sanjaya
Editor: Dwi Hastuti