Ditching the Sugar Bombs? What the EU is Planning for Your Plate

How Healthy Is Your Shopping Cart, Really?

Who doesn't occasionally reach for that quick snack or a ready-made meal at the supermarket? The European Commission has now turned its attention to these eating habits – but with a very serious background. Sadly, cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in the EU, accounting for over 1.7 million cases per year. That's a number that should wake all of us up. That's why the Commission is working on a major plan to cut mortality by a huge 20 percent by 2035.

What Does a Tax Have to Do with Health?

A central element of this ambitious plan is the introduction of an EU-wide “micro-levy” on certain food items. The focus is mainly on highly processed products with high levels of fat, sugar, and salt – or High-FSS foods. And yes, popular alco-pops are also expected to be included. But don't panic; the goal is not to overburden you financially! The Commission emphasizes that the levy will be “carefully designed” to keep prices stable while simultaneously creating incentives for healthier diets. Think of it this way: the EU wants to heighten your awareness when shopping.

The Dual Effect: Manufacturers Under Pressure

The best part? This levy doesn't just target you as a consumer. It's primarily designed to motivate manufacturers to make their products healthier from the ground up. If unhealthy ingredients become more expensive, it becomes more attractive for companies to use less fat and sugar. By the way, the revenue from this levy will be ring-fenced and flow directly into health promotion programs. There are also other exciting plans, such as a Europe-wide rating system for processed foods and a modernization of tobacco control laws. It certainly looks like our shopping experience will fundamentally change in the coming years – and all of it for a healthier future for everyone!