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Tax on Unhealthy Foods, Especially Sugary Drinks And Its Effect On Consumption In Iran
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M Ghorbanzadeh-Todeshki   , F Mohammadi-Nasrabadi * , D Ghodsi |
| , f_mohammadi_2001@yahoo.com |
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Abstract: (16 Views) |
Background and aims: In recent years, the tax on unhealthy foods, especially sugary drinks and food products with high sugar, salt and fat, has become one of the most important public health policy instruments in the world. This policy brief reviews the effect of tax on sugary drinks in changing consumer behavior and the feasibility of its effective implementation in Iran.
Materials and methods: This study was conducted as an evidence-based policy review. The data has been extracted from reliable international and national sources.
Findings: In addition to increasing the risk of non-communicable diseases such as obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease, unhealthy foods, especially sugary drinks, impose additional costs on the individual and the society, and thus on the country's health system. This tax can reduce consumer demand, improve health outcomes, and be defined as a mechanism to support health equity and sustainability of the healthcare system. In Iran, domestically produced goods harmful to health are subject to taxes and duties at the rate of sixteen percent (16%), and their importation is subject to taxes and duties at the rate of thirty-six percent (36%).
Conclusion: If more taxes are imposed on unhealthy foods and their prices are increased, it will be possible to reduce the consumption of these goods along with proper education. For its greater impact in Iran, a strong monitoring system should be implemented and instead of being income-oriented, it should be health-oriented. In general, according to the economic conditions of Iran, the strict and complete implementation of this policy can be a valuable solution to improve the consumption pattern and the health of the society. |
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| Keywords: Total fat, Sum of Saturated fatty acids, Sum of trans fatty acids, Iran, Industrial and guiled food, Fried foods |
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Full-Text [PDF 630 kb]
(16 Downloads)
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Article type: Brief Policy |
Subject:
nutrition
Received: 2026/05/24 | Accepted: 2026/01/30 | Published: 2026/06/1
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