The UK government resigns the taxation, but the debate on sugar continues
The UK government has abandoned plans to introduce a sugar tax as part of its “obesity strategy”, according to the Financial Times.
Prime Minister David Cameron has rejected the proposal for a sugar tax of up to 20 per cent, but companies will be expected to reduce sugar content in their products – if they fail to do so, the question of a tax may be reintroduced.
The policy will initially apply to drinks, but could be extended to snacks and other food sectors. Some retails have already started to delist sweet beverages from their shelves.
Other measures being discussed could include restrictions on television advertisements for junk food before a 9pm.
Public Health England (PHE) launched a document, trying to explain how PHE will prepare evidence and advice for government. “We also set out the actions we are undertaking now, and those we will take in the near future to help reduce sugar intake. Our work plan builds on our expertise and experience in diet, obesity and marketing and on conversations with stakeholders including academics, consumer groups and industry representatives”, according to the report “Sugar Reduction: Responding to a Challenge”.
In response to the publication of Public Health England’s paper, Barbara Gallani, Director of Regulation, Science & Health at the Food and Drink Federation, the voice of food and drink manufacturers in the UK, said:“FDF and its members recognize that diets high in sugar can contribute to excess calorie intake, which if sustained can lead to weight gain and obesity. This is why we will to continue to play our part to help consumers reduce their calorie intake and be more active. FDF members have committed to reducing calories in their products under the Department of Health’s Responsibility Deal. In some cases this has included a reduction in sugar as part of the wider calorie reduction plan.
On the other hand, Food and Drink Federation explains that sugars are not specific cause of obesity.
“When too many calories are consumed (from whatever source) and left unbalanced with physical activity, this will lead to weight gain. A comprehensive science review carried out by the independent advisory nutrition committee to UK Government confirmed that sugars can be enjoyed safely as part of a varied diet. The report made clear that excess sugars leads to excess calories, and it is the excess calories that are linked to obesity and its associated diseases, rather than sugars specifically”, according to the document from FDF.
Additionally, existing VAT on food and drink raises well over GBP10bn for the Exchequer annually. Additional taxes on certain products have not been found to influence diets over the long-term where they’ve been trialed.
“We share Government’s view that a comprehensive approach is the answer to tackling obesity, not new taxes”, FGF mentioned.
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