A rapid review examining purchasing changes resulting from fiscal measures targeted at high sugar foods and sugar-sweetened drinks

Katharine E Roberts,Victoria J Mcgowan,Victoria C Targett,Theodora Machaira,Alison E Tedstone,Rachel E Allen,Louisa J Ells

doi:10.1038/s41387-017-0001-1

Katharine E Roberts, Victoria J Mcgowan + Show 5 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1038/s41387-017-0001-1

Copy DOI

Abstract

To aim of the review was to examine the most recent (2010 onwards) research evidence on the health and behavioural impacts, in adults and children, of fiscal strategies that target high sugar foods and sugar-sweetened drinks (SSDs). A pragmatic rapid review was undertaken using a systematic search strategy. The review was part of a programme of work to support policy development in relation to high sugar food and SSDs. A total of 11 primary research publications were included, describing evidence from France (n = 1), the Netherlands (n = 3), and the United States of America (n = 7), assessed through a variety of study designs, with the majority in adult populations (n = 10). The evidence reviewed focused on consumer behaviour outcomes and suggested that fiscal strategies can influence purchases of high sugar products. Although the majority of studies (n = 10), including three field studies, demonstrated that an increase in the price of high sugar foods and SSDs resulted in a decrease in purchases, eight studies were conducted in a laboratory or virtual setting which may not reflect real-life situations.Findings from this review support evidence from the broader literature that suggests that fiscal measures can be effective in influencing the purchasing of high sugar foods and SSDs.

Highlights

The UK population consumes more sugar than is recommended[1] and sugar consumption increases the risk of consuming too many calories which contributes to weight gain and obesity[2]
The lack of peer reviewed experimental evidence overall meant there was little robust evidence regarding effects that have been highlighted in the broader literature such as the potential difference in short vs. long term effects, the extent and nature of a regressive, and subsequently progressive, effect and an understanding of compensatory behaviours and their impact on individual and population level dietary intake and nutritional quality overall
It is important to consider the findings presented in this review within the following methodological limitations: 1. This review focused on evidence from high sugar foods and sugar sweetened drinks (SSDs); much of the research evidence is focused on broader groups such as unhealthy, energy dense, high calorie for nutrients, high fat, sugar and salt products and these studies will not have been identified for inclusion unless they provided a specific reference to a high sugar component

Summary

Introduction

The UK population consumes more sugar than is recommended[1] and sugar consumption increases the risk of consuming too many calories which contributes to weight gain and obesity[2]. As an important determinant of food choice, price is one focus for interventions aimed at changing population level dietary consumption[3]. Price based initiatives such as taxes, subsidies and other economic initiatives are employed in some countries, either to discourage the consumption of unhealthy nutrients. As a contributor to diet related ill health, frequently with little nutrient value other than calories from sugar and with readily available substitutions in the form of either diet drinks or water, they are currently a target for taxation in many countries[8]

Objectives

Methods

Results

Discussion

Conclusion