The topic of government regulation in the food industry versus individual responsibility has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing approximately 3-4 times annually since 2019. Based on this trend and growing global concerns about public health, this topic likely remains highly relevant for future tests. Let’s examine a recent question that exemplifies this theme.
fast food and public health issues have become increasingly significant in recent years, leading to various perspectives on regulation and personal choice.
Analysis of Task 2 Question
Some people believe that governments should regulate the food industry to protect public health, while others think individuals should take responsibility for what they eat. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Key Requirements:
- Discuss both perspectives
- Present personal opinion
- Support arguments with examples
- Maintain balanced analysis
should governments regulate the advertising of unhealthy foods is a crucial aspect to consider when examining this topic.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The debate over whether food industry regulation should be government-controlled or left to individual discretion has generated significant discussion. While both approaches have merit, I believe a balanced combination of government oversight and personal responsibility is most effective.
Government regulation of the food industry serves several crucial purposes. Firstly, authorities can enforce safety standards and quality control measures that protect public health. For instance, many countries require clear nutritional labeling and restrict harmful additives, enabling consumers to make informed choices. Additionally, governmental oversight can limit deceptive marketing practices, particularly those targeting vulnerable groups like children.
However, individual responsibility plays an equally vital role. People must ultimately make their own dietary choices and understand the consequences of their food consumption. Personal accountability involves educating oneself about nutrition, maintaining a balanced diet, and making conscious decisions about food intake. For example, even with strict regulations, individuals must still choose whether to consume fast food or prepare healthier meals at home.
should fast food chains be regulated remains a contentious issue, but the most effective approach combines both governmental and individual efforts. While regulations provide a framework for food safety and transparency, personal responsibility ensures these measures translate into healthier eating habits. This synergy creates a comprehensive approach to public health management.
In conclusion, while both government regulation and individual responsibility have distinct roles, their combination offers the most effective solution for promoting public health through proper food choices.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Nowadays, there is a big discussion about who should control what people eat – the government or individuals themselves. This essay will look at both sides and give my opinion.
On one side, government control of food has some good points. The government can make rules about food safety and make companies tell us what is in our food. For example, in many countries, food packages must show how much sugar and fat they contain. This helps people know what they are eating.
But other people think we should decide for ourselves what to eat. They say that everyone is different and knows what is best for them. If someone wants to eat unhealthy food sometimes, that is their choice. Also, many people learn about healthy eating from their family and culture.
should governments implement stricter regulations on fast food advertising is another important question to consider.
I think both sides are partly right. We need some government rules to keep food safe, but people must also be responsible for their own choices. The government can help by giving information, but cannot force people to eat healthy food.
In conclusion, the best way is to have both government rules and personal choice working together to help people eat better.
Score Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear organization and coherent arguments
- Well-developed examples
- Balanced discussion with clear position
- Excellent cohesion and paragraphing
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Basic but clear vocabulary
- Simple but adequate organization
- Limited example development
- Some repetition and simple structures
- Basic cohesion devices
Key Vocabulary
- regulation (n) /ˌreɡjʊˈleɪʃən/ – official rules made by authorities
- oversight (n) /ˈəʊvəsaɪt/ – supervision; watching and directing
- deceptive (adj) /dɪˈseptɪv/ – misleading; giving a false impression
- synergy (n) /ˈsɪnədʒi/ – combined effect greater than individual parts
- accountability (n) /əˌkaʊntəˈbɪləti/ – responsibility for actions
- comprehensive (adj) /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/ – complete; including all aspects
- transparency (n) /trænsˈpærənsi/ – openness and clarity in processes
regulating fast food marketing to protect health remains an ongoing discussion in many countries.
For practice, write your own essay response in the comments section. Consider addressing these potential future questions:
- Should governments tax unhealthy foods?
- How can schools promote healthy eating habits?
- Should food companies be required to reduce sugar content?