Financial incentives proposed for healthier diets
Increasing the prices of unhealthy foods such as fizzy drinks and high-fat products would help people reduce their overall calorie intake, according to a new report. Research from the University of North Carolina found that adults tend to eat less junk food and better manage their body weight if the costs are raised.
The findings revealed that an 18 per cent tax on unhealthy foods would result in a decline of 56 per cent in a person's daily calorie intake.
Lead author of the study Dr Kiyah Duffey said: "To compensate for food environments where healthful foods, including fresh fruits and vegetables, tend to cost more, public health professionals and politicians have suggested that foods high in calories, saturated fat or added sugar be subject to added taxes."
Recent retail reports suggest that bundle offers on snacks and ready-meals continue to pose a threat to diet plans.
