The regulation of fast food companies has become an increasingly important topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations. Based on analysis of past papers, questions related to regulating fast food advertising to prevent obesity have appeared multiple times, particularly in countries facing rising obesity rates.
Fast food regulation debate showing healthy and unhealthy food options
Recent IELTS Question Analysis
The most common question format on this topic appeared in recent IELTS tests:
Some people believe that governments should regulate fast-food companies to improve public health. Others think people should be free to make their own food choices. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Understanding the Question
- Topic: Government regulation of fast food companies
- Task: Discuss both perspectives and provide personal view
- Key aspects: Public health vs. individual freedom
- Focus: Role of government in food industry regulation
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.0)
The debate over whether should fast food companies be regulated has gained significant attention worldwide. While some advocate for government intervention to protect public health, others emphasize personal freedom in dietary choices. In my opinion, a balanced approach combining moderate regulation with public education would be most effective.
Government regulation proponents argue that oversight is essential for public health protection. Studies show direct correlations between fast food consumption and rising obesity rates, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. Implementing restrictions on advertising, portion sizes, and ingredient quality could significantly reduce these health risks. For instance, several countries have successfully reduced sugar consumption by regulating soft drink manufacturing and marketing.
Conversely, opponents contend that dietary choices should remain personal decisions. They maintain that government intervention infringes upon individual rights and market freedom. Furthermore, they argue that education and awareness are more effective than regulations in promoting healthy eating habits. Small business owners also express concern that excessive regulation could harm their livelihoods and limit consumer choices.
In my view, a balanced approach is crucial. While complete deregulation might lead to public health crises, excessive control could prove counterproductive. Governments should implement moderate regulations focusing on transparency in ingredient labeling, limiting harmful additives, and restricting marketing to children. Simultaneously, comprehensive public health education programs should empower individuals to make informed choices.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Should governments regulate advertising of unhealthy foods is a topic that many people discuss today. Some people think the government should control fast food companies, but others want freedom to choose their food. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
People who support government control have some good reasons. First, fast food is not healthy and causes many health problems. When people eat too much fast food, they can become overweight or sick. Also, fast food companies use lots of advertisements to attract children. This is not good for children’s health.
However, other people think we should be free to choose what we eat. They say the government should not tell us what food to buy. Also, fast food is convenient and cheap for many busy people. Some people say if the government controls fast food companies, many workers might lose their jobs.
In my opinion, we need some rules but not too many. The government should make sure fast food is safe to eat and companies tell the truth about their food. But people should also learn about healthy eating and make good choices themselves.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8.0 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary: “proponents,” “intervention,” “correlations”
- Complex sentence structures
- Clear organization and cohesion
- Well-developed arguments
- Academic tone throughout
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Simple but clear vocabulary
- Basic sentence structures
- Some organization present
- Limited development of ideas
- Informal tone at times
Key Vocabulary
- regulation (n) /ˌreɡjʊˈleɪʃən/ – official rules controlling something
- intervention (n) /ˌɪntəˈvenʃən/ – becoming involved to influence a situation
- proponent (n) /prəˈpəʊnənt/ – person who supports an idea or theory
- oversight (n) /ˈəʊvəsaɪt/ – supervision or control
- counterproductive (adj) /ˌkaʊntəprəˈdʌktɪv/ – having opposite effect to what is intended
Public health education campaign promoting healthy food choices
Conclusion
The regulation of fast food companies remains a crucial topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. Similar questions may appear about should fast food advertisements be banned or specific aspects of food industry regulation. Practice writing essays on related topics like sugar taxes, food labeling requirements, or school food policies.
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and improvement suggestions.
