Would a Food Tax Make Us Eat Less Junk?
Talk of initiating a junk food tax on unhealthy food items has both scientists and activist groups pondering the question and looking for an answer. Would imposing taxes on junk food decrease the consumption of it? Would a tax actually cut down on some people’s intake of calories and unhealthy products?
Some trial tests done by scientists around the world have revealed that a food tax on unhealthy items (much like the kind on cigarettes) might in fact lower sales. Multiple studies have shown a decrease in the consumption of sugary, high-calorie foods and beverages when there is an added tax of 25% or more.
Imposing a high tax on junk food items is looking more and more like it could work. When compared to a study of an educational campaign where there were signs recommending individuals cut back on sugary soft drinks for health reasons, the tax ended up making much more of a difference.
It is perhaps becoming clearer that high taxes put on junk food decreases sales, but more studies still need to be done to see if smaller tax additions would influence people’s buying and eating habits. Both industry trade groups (like the American Beverage Association) and anti-tax groups are against the tax proposal and argue that junk food taxes will not help in the fight against obesity in America.
Supporters of the tax argue that implementation might discourage people from purchasing the items, as well as help offset the estimated $147 billion cost of treating obesity-related health issues.
What do you think? To tax, or not to tax?
Comments
Yes, I would love to see that happen. I think if we could stop production on all things junk-that would be better, but for now, this is a step in the right direction.
While I am not fully against it, I would prefer that the manufactures that insist on shoveling poor ingredients into our (ok... not exactly mine) food be heavily taxed on their end. Or perhaps be given some type of incentive to improve the quality of what Americans consume. That includes those who manufacture and profit heavily from additives.
I don't think it would matter if it were taxed higher. Other things are higher and taxed that are unhealthy and still people pay it. What I think will actually change in people is when they are told they can't have insurance until they lose weight is when things will change in people's minds.
I agree with Paula, imposing higher taxes on junk food is ridiculous! With all of the other foods that are harmful and genetically modified we can't afford to impose more bad practices. We have to continue to educate people, schools, and the food industry, on more healthy choices. First, question why is it more costly to eat healthy? Why are more foods that say less fat, more fatty?? How are we allowing them to mis-label foods. So many foods have half of the items not listed and they may contain items that can harmful to people that are allergic to certain food groups. This has to stop!!!
I'm pro-tax, but I don't think it will curb the desire for "junk" food. I still believe in providing fun, accessible community education on making better lifestyle choices. Here in Washington State we had the tax on candy repealed this last election. I noticed that it didn't curb anyone I know from eating less candy or soda. I did notice during the period Washington did tax candy and soda (among other products), stores were offering incredible deals on candy and buy 4, get 1 free half racks of soda. Sometimes when one would buy 4, get 1 free soda, the store threw in a bag of chips, too. Stores will still profit no matter what, in my opinion.
Forcing people to change their eating habits will not work as we all may already know. Many people won't change until direct or indirect (family, friends) health-related events - make it necessary to change their lifestyle in order to improve their health. I know this because I have family members I am concerned for and try to impress a more healthy lifestyle upon.
Taxing is an idea, but forcing people to change their lifestyle will backfire. We need to approach in a different and more diplomatic manner.
Why don't we put a tax on breathing, too? Maybe a METER on our neck to detect the amount of air we breathe. That tax on junk food is against the second amendment. Our right to be FAT...unhealthy and plain stupid if we want to be. Our rights are being attacked from all directions.
If for the simple reason of becoming healthier or to avoid obesity did not set some peoples goal for aiming towards healthier eating, I not sure how much of taxing junk food would help. I would only hope. We are a determined society in whether to eat healthy or not. meaning we have to pay the cost if we chocolate. Our cravings are too over whelming to fight off.