In some countries an increasing number of people are suffering from health problems as a result of eating too much fast food. It is therefore necessary for governments to impose a higher tax on this kind of food. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Eating fast food is on the rise. People are too busy to cook at home so opt for a fast, easy, cheap and tasty alternative. This is not always the best choice as junk food can create health problems. Eating artificial food high in salt, sugar, oil, preservatives etc. on a regular basis can lead to obesity, high blood pressure, heart attacks etc.
In order to protect people’s health the government could tax fast food so as to discourage people from eating it. One of the greatest benefits of junk food is that it is affordable. If prices go up and consumers need to pay a higher cost then they might go for something cheaper. In order for this scheme to work however it is necessary for the price of fresh fruit and vegetables to drop. Many low income groups choose unhealthy options because they simply can’t afford to buy groceries and cook for their entire family. It is much cheaper for them to purchase family meals at a fast food outlet.
On the other hand, some people might argue that eating fast food is an individual’s personal choice and taxing this is unlikely to make a difference to a person’s lifestyle. Some people, especially teenagers, enjoy eating junk food and a higher price might not put them off going to fast food outlets.
I believe our health is extremely important and to avoid getting ill we should stay away from unhealthy food. I think it is a good idea for governments to get involved as they did in the case of tobacco and tax fast food. But at the same time they should subsidize fresh fruit and vegetables so that poor families can afford them.
Question taken from The Official Cambridge Guide to IELTS for Academic & General Training p. 224