Taxes on sugar-sweetened beverages are on the rise, which could bring sugar highs to an all-time low. Introduced as the “SWEET” Act in 2014, the bill would add a 1% tax per every 4.2 grams of added sugar in beverages.
The U.S. hasn’t implemented a nationwide sugar tax yet, but 6 cities have put a higher price tag on the sweet stuff. Regardless of your sugar tax stance, there’s certainly one sweet advantage: less sugar could mean less pain for pearly whites.
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The Tax Has Been Tested
Implementing similar taxes in Mexico lead to a 12% decrease in sweetened beverage consumption. If the U.S. follows in Mexico’s footsteps, we could lower consumption of empty calories and decrease cavities for our families.
Soda Shrinking = Water Drinking
Sugary sodas and other artificially sweet “sippables” offer little or no nutritional value. Water is a healthy and calorie-free alternative. When Berkeley, California passed a tax on sugar-sweetened beverages, consumption dropped 21% and water consumption increased by 63%. A big change that has a big impact on health! Think of preventing cavities like you reading a Nicolas Sparks novel—water works. Dread drinking water? Here’s how to drink more.
The Tax Gives Back
What would happen to the extra cash? The city of Philadelphia began collecting the tax at the beginning of 2017. The money is planned to fund city programs, education and parks. And there’s a lot to go around; an estimated $300 million per year can be gained from these taxes.
Are you sweet on the sugar tax? Share your stance below!
