Will taxing unhealthy foods/beverages impact obesity rates?

Saturday, July 11, 2009 by Traci Baker
Recently, a number of elected officials have proposed taxing unhealthy foods (especially soft drinks) as a way to reduce obesity rates and/or fund health and health insurance related issues.  Let us know what you think of these type of initiatives:
  • Will taxing unhealthy foods/beverages reduce obesity rates?
  • Are you less likely to consume such foods if they are a few cents more expensive due to such taxes?
  • Are food taxes an appropriate way to pay for health insurance expansion or reform?
  • Are you in favor or opposed to such taxes to help offset obesity related expenses experienced by states and federal government?
  • If collected, should such funds be limited to addressing obesity?
Sound off in the comments section. I am interested in hearing your thoughts!

Comments for Will taxing unhealthy foods/beverages impact obesity rates?

Sunday, July 12, 2009 by Michele:
Absolutely not! It has not reduced the number of people buying cigarettes yet so why will it reduce the number of people buying unhelthy foods? Who gets to decide what is considered healthy and unhealthy? Is that food unhealthy for everyone? Why not reduce the cost of the healthy foods so those on limited incomes can afford them?

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