Genetically modified organism taxes as a possible solution to nutrition-related diseases : an explorative study

Abstract

Nutrition-related diseases in South Africa are predicted to rise at an unprecedented rate in the next two decades. There is therefore a need for a solution. Food taxes are seen by many as a possible solution to nutrition-related diseases caused by the high consumption of unhealthy food. A number of foreign countries have implemented food taxes to curb consumption of unhealthy food. The South African government has shown willingness to use regulatory policy to improve public health. There has been little research on genetically modified organism (GMO) taxes as a solution to discourage people from consuming unhealthy food. This study aims to explore whether GMO taxes should form part of the solution to curb nutrition-related diseases. This was achieved by conducting a literature review on the health impact of GMOs and other unhealthy foods, as well as food taxes imposed in foreign countries. Research results indicated that GMOs have adverse health impacts. The introduction of food taxes in foreign countries generally resulted in a decrease in the consumption of or demand for the taxed foods. This study concludes by proposing a policy for a tax on GMOs.