Unhealthy food has been a ubiquitous problem for many centuries. Whether governments should provide financial support to farmers in order to lower healthy foods’ costs, or impose tax on enterprises which produce unhealthy foods has sparked a heated discussion among people. Personally, I believe that subsidizing the price of healthy foods should be prioritized.
On the one hand, it is supposed by some that taxing companies producing unhealthy foods is advantageous. In other words, most people prefer fast foods as they are cheaper, and lower prices attract customers; Therefore, by making them more expensive, it could be possible to reduce their consumption. For instance, the UK has imposed a ‘sugar tax’ on soft drinks, as an anti-obesity policy. As a result, the government could deter people from buying unhealthy food options, and encourage them to buy cheaper, healthier alternatives.
On the other hand, I share the opinion of those who consider that the government should provide financial support to farmers. This would, ultimately, enable more families to have fresh food on their tables. Owing to the fact that if healthier options would have lower prices, people could ,actually, afford to purchase them and provide their families with nutritious meals. This could increase the well-being of individuals and prevent the detrimental effects of unhealthy meals such as fast food. This is thought to have negative impacts on the economy; however, although some money is given to farmers, the money saved by improved health care of habitants would outweigh its costs.
In summary, despite the arguments being put forward to support tax on enterprises, I would side with those who think giving financial aid would be a better choice.