In an effort to pay for the rising cost of medical care associated with obesity, what country recently enacted legislation to tax foods with high salt, sugar and fat content?
1. Brazil
2. China
3. France
4. Hungary
5. Japan
The correct answer is Hungary. Beginning this month, Hungarians will pay taxes on foods high in fat, sugar and salt. The revenue will be used to cover rising healthcare costs in a country where nearly one out of five residents is obese.
The legislation is based on the notion expressed by Hungarian prime minister Viktor Orban, who stated, "Those who live unhealthily have to contribute more." Although the Hungarian tax is the most comprehensive on unhealthy foods to date, other European countries are already taxing sodas and candy. And if obesity rates continue to rise despite educational efforts, additional European countries are likely to adopt similar taxes. Will the trend migrate across the ocean to the United States?
That’s one perspective. Are there others who would like to comment?
Posted by: Carole Carson | September 20, 2011 at 03:14 PM
While some genetic anomalies may exists that incline individuals, or even ethnic groups, towards unhealthy addictions such as alcohol, nicotine, sugar and other drugs (or dangerous adrenalin sports)it is clearly evident that folks can, if they want, overcome these influences. And, it is also evident that we should not have to pay for those who don't.
Of course, the very rare "fat gene" (if it really exists) would have to be treated as a disease.
Posted by: Bill Kimley | September 15, 2011 at 06:37 PM
Your sentiment seems to be growing as the financial implications of unhealthy lifestyles become increasingly obvious. But where do you draw the line? What are intentional medical problems and which ones are caused by genetic or environmental factors?
Posted by: Carole Carson | September 12, 2011 at 09:46 PM
"Those who live unhealthily have to contribute more."
He is absolutely correct. Why should folks who work hard to take care of themselves have to pay higher insurance rates to cover intentionally sick people.
Posted by: Bill Kimley | September 10, 2011 at 06:14 PM