Tax On Sugary Drinks

The debate about whether to impose a tax on sugary drinks or not raises some interesting questions. Some individuals argue that government should tax sugary drinks because the number of health risks associated with them are on the rise. Opponents argue that consumers should have the right to drink what they want. By introducing an additional tax on sugary drinks proponents are hoping to decrease the consumption of these beverages, and thus promote a healthier lifestyle. While taxing sugary drinks may have its advantages, it also poses many disadvantages, as well.

Ideally, raising the prices of sugary drinks will reduce the intake of sugary products which are closely related to obesity, and diabetes. For instance, increasing the price of sodas may reduce the consumption. The average soda contains approximately 140 calories from sugar, and …show more content…
Not every American is happy with the idea of using a tax to promote public health. For example, those who consume soda may feel that they have the right to indulge in the drink. They may also feel that everyone shouldn't suffer just because a few people cannot moderate their consumption. A report from the New England Medical Journal stated that “soft drink sales have been declining for the past nine years without such a tax, and obesity and diabetes rates in two of the states that tax soft drinks are among the nation’s highest.” Clearly, there are many people who feel a tax on sugary drinks would violate basic rights."

Overall, Overall, there are potential pros and cons to taxing sugary drinks. Many people believe a tax on sugary drinks could be beneficial by lowering sugar intake and diseases related to sugar. However, there are also those who feel a sugar tax would unfairly infringe on their rights. In the end, when making a decision to put new taxes in sugary product, Americans should carefully examine both sides of the sugar tax