DESPITE recommendations by dietitians that reduced sugar consumption is desirable for improved general health, the sticky substance remains highly addictive. Bad news for most - apart from dentists but good news for Greencore, the sugar, milling and malting group where the high margin sugar business accounts for 53 per cent of group profits and 30 per cent of sales.

Results this week covering the half year to end March show continuing growth in sales of sugar, which rose 17.5 per cent to £69 million. Generally favourable trading conditions, strong sales and lower interest charges lifted first half pre tax profits at Greencore by 16 per cent to £25.5 million. A £1 million reduction in interest payments added some gloss to profits. Group sales rose 9 per cent to £230 million.

The board sweet talks shareholders with the possibility of enhanced returns if no acquisitions are made and liquidity continues to improve. For the moment, interim dividend has been raised 12 per cent to 2.3p a share.