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Soft drinks tax: BSDA responds

The British Soft Drinks Association (BSDA) has responded to the British Medical Association’s (BMA) call for a soft drinks tax of 20%. “Evidence from other countries has shown this type of tax does not work,” said Gavin Partington, BSDA Director General. “In fact, the soft drinks tax in Mexico has reduced average calorie intake by […]

The British Soft Drinks Association (BSDA) has responded to the British Medical Association’s (BMA) call for a soft drinks tax of 20%.

“Evidence from other countries has shown this type of tax does not work,” said Gavin Partington, BSDA Director General. “In fact, the soft drinks tax in Mexico has reduced average calorie intake by just 6 calories per person, per day and the study referred to by the BMA in this report suggests a 20% tax here would reduce calorie intake by a mere 4 calories per day.”

“By contrast, the efforts by soft drinks companies including product reformulation, smaller pack sizes and increased promotion of low and no calorie drinks have led to a 7% reduction in calories from soft drinks in the last three years.”

“The soft drinks industry recognises it has a role to play in supporting public health objectives and welcomes steps to encourage a balanced diet and active lifestyle but targeting single ingredients or products is misguided and unlikely to prove effective.”