Ireland’s sugar tax on soft drinks is showing promising results, according to a new government report. Introduced in 2018, the tax aims to combat obesity by encouraging people to consume less sugar and pushing manufacturers to make healthier drinks.
Health Minister Stephen Donnelly shared some eye-opening figures: In 2010, the average person consumed about 6 kilograms of sugar from fizzy drinks bought in stores. By 2022, this dropped to just 3.8 kilograms – a significant decrease that could lead to better health outcomes, especially for children and young adults.
The tax seems to be working in two ways. First, it’s changing what people buy, with many opting for lower-sugar alternatives. Second, it’s pushing companies to change their recipes. Four out of five leading soft drink brands have now reduced their sugar content to avoid the tax altogether.
“This shows that taxing unhealthy products can really make a difference,” said Minister Donnelly. “We’re creating an environment where it’s easier for everyone, particularly our young people, to make healthier choices.”
However, it’s not all fizzy good news. The report flagged a concerning rise in energy drink consumption, especially among teenagers. This is an area the government plans to look into further.
Finance Minister Jack Chambers added that the drop in tax revenue from lower-sugar drinks is actually a positive sign, showing that both consumers and companies are making healthier choices.
As obesity rates remain high in Ireland, with one in five primary school children and 60% of adults affected, the government sees the sugar tax as an important tool in its broader strategy to improve public health. While it’s still early days, officials are optimistic that these changes will lead to long-term health benefits for the Irish population.
Look here for Evaluation of Ireland’s SugarSweetened Drinks’ Tax (SSDT)