There is an ongoing debate about individuals’ food preferences whether there should be personal liberty or government ought to monitor by legislations. While it is irrefutable that citizens have freedom to choose whatever they want, however I side with those who argue that there should be control over peoples’ diet.
Some individuals advocate that citizens should have the right to select the type of food. Firstly, people should decide what they want without government involvement. This is because food preferences are connected with cultures, religions and lifestyle. For instance, some people intentionally choose certain diet for enjoyment or tradition. As a result, excessive regulation may violate the personal freedom. Secondly, Overregulation can harm business as well as competitive market. Put differently, strict food laws may negatively affect restaurants and food companies. A good example comes from small businesses, excessive taxes and surveillance may cause struggles and issues. Consequently, it may even effect detrimentally the whole food industry and economy.
Nevertheless, another group of people claim that there should be legal measures over food choices. Specifically, law enforcement agencies have to enact protective laws for public health such as minimizing sugar and trans fats can lower diet-related illnesses. Plus, fast food advertisements targeting children and teenagers should be completely restricted. For example, schools banned offering junk food for students and the it improved their general health in some countries. In addition, the availability of policies has contributions to reducing healthcare costs because government spend billions to treat diet-related ailments. Since prevention is cost-effectively than long-term treatment, the laws serve as preventive measurement. To exemplify, countries with strict food policies often experience lower healthcare issues. Subsequently, healthy citizens are always productive socially and economically.
To conclude, while the idea supported by those who mention that people have the rights to single out choices is justified with compelling reasons, but I personally share the same perspective as those believe that governing bodies implement moderate regulations to promote healthier lifestyles.