'Fat tax won't cut obesity rates'

[Posted: Wed 26/10/2011 by Niall Hunter, Editor www.irishhealth.com]

Nearly two out of three people don't believe that imposing a 'fat tax' on junk food and fizzy drinks will combat our growing obesity rates, according to our latest poll.

The Government is currently considering the introduction of a special tax on sugar-sweetened drinks but says it is not at present considering the imposition of a tax on foods high in salt, fat and sugar.

Health Minister James Reilly, however, has said he is asking the country's fast food operators to include calorie details on their menus.

We asked readers whether imposing heavy taxes on fatty food and sugary drinks will help combat obesity.

Sixty-one per cent said no, 32% said yes while 7% were unsure.

View the poll results and comments and the results of previous polls here

Taxing ourselves thin - the way forward?