Would you like to see a sugar tax?
The report which moves beyond a discussion of should be have such a tax into how should such a tax be formulated. It argues that a tax should not be on drinks per se but on calories. You can read more here
But to emphasis the two key finding from the report on the RWJF site:-
“- This study predicts that a .04 cent per-calorie tax on all SSBs could reduce annual per capita consumption by 5,800 calories.
– A calorie-based beverage tax cost an estimated $1.40 less in consumer surplus loss than an ounce-based tax, per 3,500 beverage calories reduced.”
The concept of such a tax (on these drink) has been mooted in the US and, indeed, Mexico introduced such as tax last year. Which means that it is pretty sure that we in the EU will be “lumbered” with such a tax in the next few years.
So do you think that the tax is a good idea or is it “the nanny state gone mad”?
We thought it would be interesting to find out. Please do take our poll below. It would be great if you would share your thoughts in the comments box below!
It doesn’t work. They tax alcohol, cigarettes and even gas(partly to reduce pollution. As prices go up, people didn’t drink less, smoke less or drive less. They just paid more. If it wasn’t for e-cigs none of them reduce. It is not about reducing obesity, it is about money.