Here, Dr Natalie Pearson, an expert in behavioural epidemiology and public health, shares her views on why this is a positive step for protecting public health, but needs to be part of a much bigger strategy to tackle issues within the food system.
“The government’s decision to lower the threshold for sugar tax and include milk-based drinks is another significant step in its approach to protecting public health.
“Studies suggest that the introduction of the levy has already been linked to reductions in childhood obesity rates, and evidence from the soft drink industry levy also shows that measures like this can effectively reduce sugar consumption in children, particularly those in low-income households. So, the decision to reduce the threshold further and extend the levy to include milk-based drinks, has the potential to encourage further reductions in sugar intake, which, in turn, may help to reduce obesity rates and improve overall public health.
“It is crucial though that milk is not inadvertently demonised. Milk and dairy products that are unprocessed or minimally processed are a valuable source of essential nutrients, especially for children. The focus needs to remain on reducing unnecessary added sugars and other industrial ingredients, not discouraging the consumption of whole foods and drinks that play a vital role in a balanced diet.
“A more comprehensive, integrated strategy for food reform is also crucial to making more progress. We need to tackle the deep inequalities within our food system, including the huge price disparities, with healthier foods often costing more than mass produced ultra-processed foods. A 2021 Food Foundation report found that the poorest 20% of families would need to spend 47% of their disposable income to meet government-recommended healthy eating guidelines, compared to just 11% for the wealthiest.
“Today’s move is an opportunity to begin transforming the food system so that it promotes health and equity for everyone. A truly healthy food environment ensures that nutritious, low-sugar, and minimally processed foods and drinks are affordable and accessible, not as a matter of personal choice, but as a structural norm. Achieving this requires systemic action: investing in community food programmes, strengthening food labelling standards, enforcing stricter controls on the marketing of ultra-processed products, and expanding public education that empowers communities rather than placing the burden on individuals.”
ENDS
For further comments or interview requests with Dr Natalie Pearson, email the PR team or call 01509 222224.