The topic of taxing unhealthy foods has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing frequently in recent years. As impact of sugar taxes on health choices continues to be debated globally, this topic remains highly relevant for IELTS candidates. Let’s examine a recent test question and analyze multiple sample responses across different band scores.
Exam Question Analysis
Some people think that governments should impose higher taxes on unhealthy foods to encourage people to make better food choices. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
This question requires candidates to:
- Express their position on government taxation of unhealthy foods
- Provide supporting arguments and examples
- Consider potential counterarguments
- Draw a clear conclusion
Band 8.5 Sample Essay
Similar to how should governments regulate advertising of unhealthy foods, this essay examines government intervention through taxation:
While some argue against government interference in personal food choices, I strongly believe that implementing higher taxes on unhealthy foods is an effective strategy to promote better dietary habits among the population. This essay will explore why such taxation policies are beneficial for public health and society at large.
Firstly, increased taxation on unhealthy foods can significantly influence consumer behavior. When faced with higher prices for processed and sugary foods, people naturally tend to seek more affordable alternatives, which often include healthier options. For instance, in Mexico, the introduction of a sugar tax led to a 12% reduction in the consumption of sugary beverages within the first year of implementation.
Moreover, the revenue generated from these taxes can be reinvested in public health initiatives. Governments can use these funds to subsidize healthy foods, making them more accessible to lower-income families, or to fund health education programs. This approach creates a dual benefit: discouraging unhealthy choices while simultaneously promoting better alternatives.
However, it is crucial to implement such policies thoughtfully. The tax rates should be carefully calculated to be effective without being punitive, and clear criteria must be established to define what constitutes “unhealthy” food. Additionally, governments should ensure that affordable healthy alternatives are readily available to all socioeconomic groups.
In conclusion, while implementing higher taxes on unhealthy foods may face some opposition, the potential benefits for public health make it a worthwhile policy. This approach, combined with other supportive measures, can effectively guide populations toward healthier dietary choices.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
When discussing should governments impose higher taxes on sugary drinks?, similar principles apply:
I agree that governments should put higher taxes on unhealthy foods because it can help people eat better. There are several reasons why this is a good idea.
The first reason is that when unhealthy foods cost more money, people will buy less of them. For example, if chocolate and chips become more expensive, people might choose to buy fruits instead. This happened in some countries where they put extra tax on soft drinks and people started drinking more water.
Another good thing about this idea is that the government can get more money from these taxes. They can use this money to make healthy food cheaper or to teach people about healthy eating. This is important because some people don’t know much about nutrition.
However, some problems might happen. Poor people might find it hard to buy food if prices go up too much. Also, it might be difficult to decide which foods should have higher taxes.
In conclusion, I think putting higher taxes on unhealthy foods is a good idea, but the government needs to be careful about how they do it. They should also help people understand why eating healthy food is important.
Key Vocabulary
- subsidize (v.) /ˈsʌbsɪdaɪz/ – to help someone pay for something by giving them money
- punitive (adj.) /ˈpjuːnətɪv/ – intended as punishment
- implementation (n.) /ˌɪmplɪmenˈteɪʃən/ – the process of putting a plan into action
- initiatives (n.) /ɪˈnɪʃətɪvz/ – new plans or processes to achieve something
- socioeconomic (adj.) /ˌsəʊsioʊˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk/ – related to social and economic factors
Conclusion
The topic of Should there be a tax on sugary drinks to reduce obesity rates? and similar health-related taxation policies continues to be relevant in IELTS examinations. Practice writing your own response to this question and share it in the comments section for feedback. Consider related topics like taxing fast food or providing subsidies for healthy food options as additional practice exercises.