Fighting fat is something that most everyone engages in these days. Even those who are not really overweight have become more conscious of the battle of the bulge. What with the media focusing on being skinny and all, this is not a surprise. From weight loss pills to exercise regimens to diet programs – everyone has his own surefire product!
But what about taxing soda in order to help fight fat? Well, if the U.S. health authorities are to be followed, we will soon be paying a lot more for sodas and other similar sugary drinks. According to a report by the AFP, the authorities think that getting these drinks out of the Americans’ menus would solve the problem.
Thomas Frieden, the head of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, says that the average American today consumes about 250 more calories as compared to twenty or thirty years ago. Of the 250 calories, he says that about 120 come from sugared drinks and food.
So why is the government proposing taxation? Shouldn’t people be allowed to decide for themselves? For one, obesity and other health problems related to it are costing the government a whole lot of money in health care. I guess this is enough reason for the authorities to find ways to lessen the obesity figures – about 2/3 of the American population.
Take note – these drinks and food are already being taxed. The argument, however, is that the tax is not high enough to affect consumption. It’s like the taxation argument on tobacco.
So what do you think about the issue? Would you stop (or lessen) your consumption of soda and other sugar rich foods because of higher taxes?
Originally posted on July 31, 2009 @ 12:21 pm