From and MSN article:
Sugar consumption spikes
The sugar industry began funding research in the 1960s to minimize the
health risks of sugar and emphasize the dangers of fat. The marketing
campaign apparently worked, as sugar consumption exploded from a couple
pounds per person per year to 123 pounds per person in 1970 and to 152
pounds today€”or about 42.5 teaspoons per day, compared to the
recommended 13.3 teaspoons.