Many people believe that since there are growing health hazards linked to junk food intake, the government should impose a hefty tax on this kind of food. I concur that fast-food vendors ought to pay a higher tax rate since doing so would both reduce consumption and raise government revenue.
Firstly, increased excise taxes on fast food products could lead to a decrease in their usage. Put another way, as a result of high taxes on processed goods, prices will increase and the rate of consumption of these foods will decline. This will lead to a decrease in disorders associated with renal, heart, or any other organ failure. For instance, the UK government placed a 20% tax on junk food in 2023, which severely discouraged its residents from eating many fast foods, thus reducing the load on healthcare services.
Another factor to take into account is the fact that the tax revenue derived from this type of food undoubtedly goes towards the state coffers, which may then be directed towards social welfare or national health initiatives. According to a recently commissioned Australian analysis, a significant amount of tobacco product revenue is used to treat lung cancer patients. This might also be applied to junk food. Additionally, the government might fund public awareness-raising initiatives to inform the public about the harmful effects of foods like chips, burgers, soft drinks, etc. on human health and to motivate them to pick healthier options instead.
In conclusion, I believe that the authority should charge more tax on unhealthy fast food, which would encourage its pupils to consume less and grant more budget to cure the ailments caused by this kind of food.