The topic of whether governments should increase taxes on unhealthy food products is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on analysis of past exams and current trends, this subject is likely to appear frequently in future tests. Its relevance to public health and economic policies makes it a prime candidate for assessment. Let’s examine a specific question on this topic and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Some people think that governments should increase taxes on unhealthy food products to encourage people to eat more healthily. Others believe this is not an effective solution. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss arguments for increasing taxes on unhealthy foods
- Discuss arguments against this approach
- Provide their own opinion on the matter
It’s crucial to address all parts of the question to achieve a high band score.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In recent years, the proposition of raising taxes on unhealthy food products has gained traction as a potential solution to combat the growing obesity epidemic. While proponents argue that this measure could effectively discourage unhealthy eating habits, critics contend that it may not yield the desired results. This essay will examine both perspectives before offering my own viewpoint.
Those in favor of increased taxation on unhealthy foods argue that it could serve as a powerful deterrent. By making junk food and sugary drinks more expensive, consumers might be compelled to opt for healthier alternatives. Additionally, the revenue generated from these taxes could be channeled into public health initiatives, further promoting wellness. For instance, Mexico’s implementation of a sugar tax in 2014 led to a significant reduction in the consumption of sugary beverages, demonstrating the potential effectiveness of this approach.
On the other hand, opponents of this strategy argue that it may be an oversimplified solution to a complex problem. They contend that food choices are influenced by various factors, including cultural norms, convenience, and personal preferences, which cannot be easily altered by price adjustments alone. Moreover, critics worry that such taxes could disproportionately affect lower-income groups, who often rely on cheaper, less nutritious food options due to financial constraints.
In my opinion, while increasing taxes on unhealthy food products could be a step in the right direction, it should not be the sole strategy employed. I believe that a multi-faceted approach is necessary to address the issue of poor dietary habits effectively. This could include improving nutrition education, promoting physical activity, and ensuring access to affordable healthy food options. By combining these efforts with targeted taxation, governments can create a more comprehensive and equitable solution to encourage healthier eating habits across all socioeconomic groups.
In conclusion, while raising taxes on unhealthy foods may have some merit, it is crucial to consider its limitations and potential unintended consequences. A balanced approach that combines economic incentives with education and improved access to healthy options is likely to yield more sustainable results in promoting public health.
(Word count: 329)
Healthy Food Choices
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The idea of increasing taxes on unhealthy food to make people eat better is a topic that many people talk about. Some think it’s a good idea, while others don’t agree. In this essay, I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
People who support higher taxes on unhealthy food say it can help people make better choices. If junk food costs more, people might buy less of it and choose healthier options instead. For example, if a burger becomes more expensive, someone might decide to buy a salad instead. Also, the extra money from these taxes could be used to pay for health programs or make healthy food cheaper.
However, there are also arguments against this idea. Some people think that just making unhealthy food more expensive won’t solve the problem. They say that people eat junk food for many reasons, like because it’s quick and easy, or because they like the taste. Changing prices might not be enough to change these habits. Another problem is that higher taxes might be unfair to poor people who sometimes can only afford cheaper, less healthy food.
In my opinion, I think increasing taxes on unhealthy food could help a little bit, but it’s not the only solution. I believe that teaching people about healthy eating and making sure everyone can get good food easily are also important. Maybe governments could use the money from higher taxes to make healthy food cheaper or to have more health education in schools.
To conclude, while taxing unhealthy food might have some benefits, it’s important to think about other ways to help people eat better too. A mix of different approaches is probably the best way to improve people’s health.
(Word count: 287)
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
Some people think governments should make unhealthy food more expensive with taxes. Other people don’t think this is a good idea. I will talk about both sides and give my opinion.
People who like this idea say it will make people buy less unhealthy food. If junk food costs more, maybe people will buy fruits and vegetables instead. Also, the government can use the extra money to help make people healthier.
But some people don’t agree. They think making food more expensive won’t change what people eat. People might still buy unhealthy food even if it costs more because they like it. Also, it might not be fair to poor people who can’t afford expensive food.
I think making unhealthy food more expensive might help a little, but it’s not the only thing we should do. We need to teach people about healthy eating too. Maybe schools can teach kids about good food. Also, we should make sure everyone can buy healthy food easily.
In conclusion, I think taxing unhealthy food can be good, but we need to do other things too to help people eat better.
(Word count: 173)
Explaining the Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
- Task Response: Fully addresses all parts of the task with a well-developed response.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout.
- Lexical Resource: Wide range of vocabulary used with flexibility and precision.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy.
Band 6-7 Essay:
- Task Response: Addresses all parts of the task, though some parts may be more fully covered than others.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Information and ideas are generally arranged coherently, with some use of cohesive devices.
- Lexical Resource: Sufficient range of vocabulary for the task, with some attempts at less common words.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Mix of simple and complex sentence forms, with some errors that do not impede communication.
Band 5-6 Essay:
- Task Response: Addresses the task only partially, with limited development of ideas.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Basic organization of information, but not always logical.
- Lexical Resource: Limited range of vocabulary, adequate for basic communication.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Limited range of structures with frequent errors, though meaning is generally clear.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
Obesity epidemic (noun): A widespread occurrence of obesity in a population.
Pronunciation: /əʊˈbiːsɪti ɛpɪˈdɛmɪk/Deterrent (noun): Something that discourages or prevents an action.
Pronunciation: /dɪˈterənt/Multi-faceted (adjective): Having many different aspects or features.
Pronunciation: /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/Socioeconomic (adjective): Relating to or concerned with the interaction of social and economic factors.
Pronunciation: /ˌsəʊʃɪəʊˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk/Disproportionately (adverb): To a degree that is too large or too small in comparison with something else.
Pronunciation: /ˌdɪsprəˈpɔːʃənətli/Channeled (verb): Directed towards a particular end or object.
Pronunciation: /ˈtʃænəld/Compelling (adjective): Evoking interest, attention, or admiration in a powerfully irresistible way.
Pronunciation: /kəmˈpelɪŋ/Sustainable (adjective): Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level.
Pronunciation: /səˈsteɪnəbl/Initiative (noun): An act or strategy intended to resolve a difficulty or improve a situation.
Pronunciation: /ɪˈnɪʃətɪv/Traction (noun): The extent to which an idea, product, etc. gains popularity or acceptance.
Pronunciation: /ˈtrækʃn/
Conclusion
The topic of increasing taxes on unhealthy food products is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. Future questions might explore related themes such as:
- The role of education in promoting healthy eating habits
- Government regulations on food advertising
- The impact of food subsidies on public health
- The effectiveness of nutrition labeling in reducing obesity rates
To improve your writing skills, try composing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section. This practice will help you refine your arguments and structure, essential skills for success in IELTS Writing Task 2.
