British Public Supports Tax on Sugary Drinks

In a recent poll the British Dental Health Foundation conducted it was revealed that British citizens would support the implementation of a tax on sugary drinks. The survey also noted that around half of the participants would also support taxes on fatty and sugary food, as the UK has some of the worst obesity levels in Europe.

The Health Benefits

British Dental Health Foundation’s Chief Executive, Dr Nigel Carter OBE believes the tax would have many benefits on citizens’ oral health. “The increase in consumption of sugary drinks is one of the key reasons for dental decay.

By proposing the introduction of a duty on sugary drinks, there are numerous benefits. There will be an inevitable reduction in consumption and benefits for both general and dental health for generations to come.”

The Bottom Dollar

Co-ordinator of the Children’s Food Campaign, Malcolm Clark believes the tax on sugary drinks should be 20 pence per litre. “It would be the most practical and effective way of tackling a significant source of unnecessary calories and sugar in children and young people’s diets.” A similar tax has already been implemented in Mexico, France and Hungary and Clark thinks the citizens are reaping the benefits.

The Results

The table below shows the results of the survey conducted by the British Dental Health Foundation during National Smile Month:

Hence it is obvious British citizens are prepared to foot the bill and support a tax on sugary drinks, to transform the population’s general and oral health.