New York to launch 'obesity tax' on sugary beverages?

A tax on sugary soft drinks may be introduced in New York to attempt to curb obesity levels and recoup some of the billions of dollars spent treating associated health problems each year.

Speaking at a symposium about tax on sweetened soft drinks, New York governor David Paterson said that the state spent $7.6 billion every year treating diseases related to obesity such as diabetes.

State health commissioner Richard Daines also expressed support for the proposals.

"The dramatic under-pricing of sugar-sweetened beverages, their widespread availability, and the ceaseless marketing of these products constitute a stumbling block to good health and are a clear and present danger to the future of our children," he said.

More than one-third of American adults, or over 72 million people, are obese, with another third classed as 'overweight', according to data released this year by the National Centre for Health Statistics.

However, not everyone thinks a tax on soft beverages is a good idea.
"New Yorkers know that taxes don't make people healthy," said Nelson Eusebio, the chairman of New Yorkers Against Unfair Taxes, adding that the move would devastate grocers and other retailers.

Posted by Lauren Cook