Food Taxes: A New Holy Grail?

International Journal of Health Policy and Management, Vol. 1, 2013

3 Pages Posted: 13 Jul 2013

See all articles by Ignaas Devisch

Ignaas Devisch

Ghent University - Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Sciences

Date Written: July 5, 2013

Abstract

In an effort to reduce the growing prevalence of overweight and obesity, food taxes have been introduced in several European countries, the so-called ‘obesitax’. As yet little evidence is at hand, policy measures are being taken to counterweight the consumption of unhealthy food or the increasing diet-related diseases. Several questions need to be discussed, starting from a general perspective: can food taxes become an appropriate and just policy measure to reduce overweight and obesity and therefore increase consumer’s health? The implementation of an effective and fair food tax is an exercise riddled with uncertainty. Not only is there a need for evidence on the health and economic impact of food taxes, we also have to think about a conceptual and ethical discussion concerning the balance between health imperatives and public health on the one hand, and social and ethical standards on the other hand.

Suggested Citation

Devisch, Ignaas, Food Taxes: A New Holy Grail? (July 5, 2013). International Journal of Health Policy and Management, Vol. 1, 2013, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2291812

Ignaas Devisch (Contact Author)

Ghent University - Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Sciences ( email )

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