Time for government to tax fat and sugar

I think that the government should place a higher tax on unhealthy food and drinks to discourage people from buying them.

Hot box goodies. Photo: Claudia Baxter. Picture: Claudia Baxter

SHOULD the government put a higher tax on unhealthy food and drinks?

We all know that fatty snacks and junk food are unhealthy.

At the moment, people are choosing to consume junk food because it is cheaper.

In addition, junk food is high in calories but low in nutritional content.

As a result of eating this type of food, people may suffer from diabetes, obesity and other chronic diseases.

I think that the government should place a higher tax on unhealthy food and drinks to discourage people from buying them.

First of all, an unhealthy diet has an impact not just on ourselves but also on the rest of society.

According to a study published in the Medical Journal of Australia, overweight and obesity costs Australia over $21 billion per year, plus an additional $35.6 billion in government subsidies.

There are also external costs such as: Medical costs for treating obesity and other diseases, premature death and lost productivity at work.

Currently, cardiovascular disease is a major cause of death in Australia.

Therefore, to pay for these external costs the government should collect sufficient tax from the sale of unhealthy foods.

Secondly, while increasing unhealthy foods prices, healthy foods should be made more affordable.

Lowering prices for healthy foods will result in more people choosing more healthy diet options.

However, increasing the price for unhealthy foods may not completely stop people from eating junk food, but it may make them think before buying.

In conclusion, I strongly believe that the government should place a tax on unhealthy foods and drinks to have a healthier society.

It may not completely stop people from eating junk foods but it would have a benefit of improving their health and personal wellbeing.

HONEY PRYTZ

Nambour