A tax on sweetened drinks could potentially save Germany up to 16 billion euros and prevent numerous illnesses over the next two decades, according to a study from the Technical University of Munich and the British University of Liverpool. This research suggests that a tax on soft drinks could significantly decrease sugar consumption and reduce the frequency of diseases, thereby saving costs and reducing the burden on health care.
The World Health Organization recommends a minimum 20% tax on sugary drinks to combat consumption and its consequences. Many countries have already implemented tax measures to address this issue, while Germany relies on a voluntary industry commitment with moderate results.
The study's findings reveal that the desired effect of a tax in Germany will indeed occur, leading to a decrease in obesity and illnesses. The impact can vary depending on whether the tax aims to reduce soft drink consumption in general or encourage recipe changes, according to international studies.
A flat 20% tax on soft drink prices could lead to a decrease of one gram per day of sugar consumption in an individual, and over three grams per day in men between 30 and 49. Even more impactful would be a 30% reduction in sugar in recipes, as observed in the UK after introducing a graduated manufacturer levy, resulting in a decrease of 2.3 grams per day and up to 6.1 grams among men in the same age group.
According to the team's calculations, both taxation variants would result in fewer cases of obesity, cardiovascular disease, and type 2 diabetes over the next 20 years. The expected savings in healthcare costs could amount to around 16 billion euros, with a flat tax contributing around 9.5 billion euros, based on the team's estimates.
Furthermore, the study did not account for individuals under 30 because most associated diseases predominantly affect the second half of life. However, research shows that sugar consumption is highest among teenagers, implying even more significant average reduction in sugar consumption and positive health effects if young individuals were considered.
A recent study in "BMJ Nutrition, Prevention & Health" revealed that the sugar tax in the UK has a positive impact on dental health in young individuals. Following the implementation of the tax in 2018, the study reported a 12% decrease in the number of under-18s who required tooth extractions due to tooth decay within two years.
In conclusion, implementing a sugar tax on soft drinks in line with the World Health Organization's recommendations could potentially contribute to reducing nutrition-related health issues and the costs associated with them. Additionally, taxation could provide funds for strengthening existing initiatives in the fields of science, nutrition, and healthcare, resulting in further discoveries pertaining to diet and health and preventive measures and treatments.
