AFTER cigarettes and alcoholic drinks, health advocates are now pushing for taxes on unhealthy packaged food products to prevent non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
In a statement, Healthy Philippines Alliance (HPA) said it is necessary for the government to come out with a tax system that discourages the overconsumption of products high in sugar, sodium, and saturated fat.
“Unhealthy food taxation could lead to thousands of prevented deaths and cases of cardiovascular disease and diabetes, substantial health care savings, and tax revenues in the Philippines,” said HPA Lead Convenor Dr. Jaime Galvez Tan.
“We urge our government leaders to act now. Take the lead to prevent NCDs. This is not just a tax. It is an investment to protect public health, save lives and build a healthier future for all Filipinos,” he added.
The HPA noted a recent study by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute (FNRI) which showed that a 20 percent tax imposed on unhealthy packaged food was projected to prevent 2,700 deaths, 13,600 ischaemic heart cases, 5,000 strokes, and 21,700 type 2 diabetes.
“We are backed by research that shows taxing unhealthy packaged food and beverages can reduce the burden of NCDs, encourage healthier food choices, and generate vital revenue,” said Galvez Tan.
On the other hand, the former Department of Health secretary said food taxes shouldn’t be seen as an anti-poor measure.
“What is truly anti-poor is forcing families to bear the heavy cost of preventable disease caused by cheap and unhealthy food,” stressed Galvez Tan.
The Sin Tax Law was passed in December 2012 aimed to significantly increase excise taxes on alcohol and tobacco products.
The Sin Tax Law seeks to discourage the consumption of “sinful” products, such as cigarettes and alcoholic drinks, due to their negative health impacts.
