There are some statements that selling scientifically unhealthy food and drink should be banned. For several reasons, I don’t agree with this viewpoint.
First of all, prohibiting the sale of harmful beverages might lead to their transfer to the illegal market and, in turn, an increase in crime rates. For example, some people are unable to control their alcohol cravings and will use whatever means necessary to obtain wine and beer. The illicit heroin trade in Vietnam is one example of this response.
Second, there is a chance that a black market for prohibited goods would develop when restrictions are enforced. This has been demonstrated in the case of illicit substances, where prohibitions have raised user health risks and fueled organized crime. When it comes to unhealthy foods and beverages, a black market may result in the selling of even more dangerous goods that are challenging to control. For example, the early 20th century saw the emergence of a black market as a result of the prohibition of alcohol, making the illicit manufacture and distribution of alcohol a serious issue. Because they were frequently made in filthy settings and without quality control, this resulted in the consumption of increasingly hazardous and damaging alcohol products.
In conclusion, even if there are legitimate worries about the health effects of ingesting particular foods and beverages, I do not believe that outlawing their sale is the wisest course of action because doing so would violate our democratic society’s individual liberties and encourage the growth of shadier businesses.
