Government body the Australian National Preventative Health Agency (ANPHA) is funnelling $463,000 of its research grants into a three year ‘fat tax’ study. 

If it was passed, the tax would apply to fat, sugar and salt laden foods offered by fast food chains such as McDonald’s and KFC.

In Brisbane next weekend a ‘citizens jury’ comprised of 14 members of the Australian public will debate whether the tax is the best way to tackle Australia’s weight problem, reports The Courier Mail.

Over the course of the weekend health experts, general practitioners and food industry representatives will express their thoughts, opinions and insights on the issue. 

Tracy Comans, research project leader, Griffith University said it is essential the government address the issue before it is too late.

“In 20 to 30 years, the consequences (of obesity) in terms of strokes, heart disease, kidney and liver failure are going to be catastrophic for our health care system.

“We need to look beyond blaming individuals and towards the structural things in our society. Are we okay with junk food being cheaper and easier to buy than good quality food?” she said.

Gary Dawson, CEO, Australian Food and Grocery Council strongly opposes the research project, describing it as “a complete waste of health dollars on a discredited idea.”

He is one of the many food industry professionals who disagrees with the fat tax, explaining a similar tax implemented in Denmark lasted just one year.  

“It raised food prices, hit the poorest the hardest and failed to bring about any measurable public health benefit – a shocking policy trifecta that no sensible government would want to emulate.

“Instead of punishing low income earners how about a serious effort to drive more active lifestyles. Obesity is about energy in energy out, not about any particular food,” he said.

A spokesperson for Health Minister Tanya Plibersek said “the Commonwealth Government has already commissioned an independent review of the Australian taxation system that did not recommend the introduction of a taxation system designed to decrease the production, promotion and consumption of unhealthy food and beverage products.

“Our preferred approach to actively educate and encourage Australians to adopt and maintain a healthy diet rather than to legislate.”

How do you think the government should tackle our nation’s obesity epidemic? Would a tax on fast foods damage your business?