Junk Food tax
It is well recognised by health authorities and governments across the world that in general, humans are getting fatter, especially in western countries, like the USA and Australia. This has emerged as a significant health issue.
There are many government programs being developed and implement across the world to try and reduce this growing problem. Much pressure is being placed on food manufacturers to reduce the fat and sugar content of their products and to make food “healthier”. The large quick serve or fast food or convenience businesses are now offering salads and other alternatives to their standard menu, to try to reduce a person’s kilojoule intake at each meal and in total.
The saying “we are what we eat” is quite true for most people. We need to keep the amount of energy we take in to be less than that we use, to not put on weight - there are however, exceptions due to medical or other conditions. Diet and fitness businesses are thriving and many are certainly helping lots of people.
The Taiwanese government is taking a world first approach by planning to introduce a tax on “junk”foods, in an attempt to reduce the consumption of these types of foods. This is a method being considered worldwide to try and reduce the increasing obesity.
The Apple Daily has reported that the Bureau of Health promotion is drafting a bill to tax foods such as soft drinks, confectionery, a range of fast food / quick serve and alcohol products. It is expected that all revenue raised will go toward health programs.
The bill is expected to go to the Taiwanese Parliament for debate shortly, and if passed will be introduced in 2011.
In Australia, the Preventative Health Taskforce recommended in it’s report, that this issue of a junk food tax be given more analysis before it is considered in this country, to determine the reduction in consumption of these types of foods, and therefore the potential impact on obesity. It is a very polarising issue.
The Taskforce recommended carrying out a National Risk Factor Survey in 2010, to gather information for the consideration of junk food taxes and other potential obesity reduction measures.
“This is where we need to commission independent modelling, really to look for a rationalised tax and excise regime for alcohol that discourages the harmful consumption and promotes safer consumption,” Rob Moodie, who chaired the Preventative Health Taskforce said, upon releasing the Taskforce’s report in August 2009.