Sugar-Sweetened Beverages (SSB) Tax in the UK.

The Sugar-Sweetened Beverages (SSB) Tax was introduced to reduce the consumption of sugary drinks, which are strongly linked to rising obesity levels and heart disease. The tax applies to beverages with a sugar content exceeding a specified threshold. This policy encourages beverage manufacturers to reformulate their products to reduce sugar content

: In response to the rising obesity epidemic in Europe, particularly in children and young adults, the UK government implemented this tax to discourage the consumption of sugary drinks. Obesity is a leading risk factor for heart disease, diabetes, and other NCDs

The UK Treasury collects the tax, and public health authorities monitor the consumption rates of sugary beverages and obesity-related outcomes.

Since its introduction in 2018, the tax has led to a significant decrease in the sugar content of beverages and a reduction in consumption, particularly among younger demographics. Studies suggest it has had a positive effect on lowering obesity rates

UK Department of Health and Social Care o Email: enquiries@dhsc.gov.uk o Phone: +44 20 7210 4850 o Website: www.gov.uk/dhsc