It seems governments are willing to try all measures to lead the public into eating healthier, lower calorie foods in order to tackle the obesity epidemic.
A junk food tax is being considered by many districts. The goal of this tax is to cause people to buy less junk food since it would cost more and as a result people will eat less high calorie, nutrient-depleted foods.
Over a year ago fast food restaurants were required to include nutrition facts on their menus as a way to help consumers make more informed decisions about what the healthier, lower calorie options are.
However, obesity continues to soar, so will these government imposed sanctions really make a difference?
The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition published a study in its April 2011 issue about the effectiveness of junk food taxes and restaurant calories postings on controlling obesity. Researchers studied 178 university students who were asked to choose menu items which varied in calories and included some higher fat, higher cost items. Researchers took note as to whether or not the participants already were trying to restrict their calories. The researchers found that the participants who were not restricting their diet consistently chose the low cost items and ate a lower calorie meal. The restrictive dieters mostly chose the lower calorie options when the calorie information was posted.
Overall, this study was inconclusive. More research would be needed that sampled a more diverse segment of society. If calorie information is posted, will some people be more likely to choose a higher calorie option? Furthermore, is a junk food tax appropriate and fair?
For some, calorie postings are helpful, while for others a nuisance. Many complain that junk food taxes are a way to further control the human population and diminish free will.
Do you think these governmental measures will curb the obesity epidemic?
No comments:
Post a Comment