Gazette readers back calls for healthier practices across food industry in daily poll

Readers comment on new research about the 'sugar' tax agreeing more companies should adopt healthier food practices. Picture: Pixabay

Readers have had their say on the impact of the so-called “sugar tax” as research reveals how the levy has changed beverages since its introduction.

There has been a "striking" reduction in the sugar content of soft drinks since the introduction of the fee, which came into effect in 2018.

We asked in our Facebook poll: “Do you think more companies across the food industry should adopt healthier practices?”

More than 500 people took part in our online vote and 80% of readers agreed that more companies should adopt healthier food practices.

This is what you had to say on Facebook:

Heather Ditchburn Curry said: “It’s about letting people make their own decisions and teaching parents about cooking proper meals, not about reducing the amount of sugar in everything.

“There are those who live a reasonably healthy life who enjoy the odd sweat treat.

“Why should we all suffer because some people don’t know when to stop?”

Jacqueline Sprouting said: “People should be able to make there own mind up and maybe teaching children to make a real meal will help encourage correct eating. Everyone is entitled to eat a big dirty burger once in a while.”

George Hyde said: “Let people choose what sugar intake they want/need themselves, why does everything have to be forced onto people, life is all about choices I say.”

Kath Pollard said: “Reduce sugar but stop using sweetener in everything.”

Col Suddick said: “People are free to make their own decisions.”