Sugar Tax In Bermuda: A Mixed Methods Study
“There was high awareness of the sugar tax in Bermuda, but limited acceptability of the tax as implemented,” was one of the conclusions reached in a ‘mixed methods study of general population and key stakeholder perceptions’ by BMC Public Health.
The study noted, “The purpose of this study was to understand how the sugar tax in Bermuda was perceived after policy implementation. The specific objectives were to examine beliefs and perceptions surrounding awareness, acceptability and impact the tax among 1) the general population, and 2) key stakeholders involved in, or affected by, the tax. A better understanding of these perspectives and experiences can further inform the tax policy implemented in Bermuda, and the design and implementation of health taxes in other countries. This study is likely particularly relevant for other small island nations, but the lessons learned may be more broadly applicable in other settings.
“General population respondents had high awareness of the sugar tax (94%) but low awareness of the healthy food subsidy (32%). Most respondents (67%) felt the tax was not an appropriate way to motivate healthier consumption due to beliefs the tax would not be effective (44%), and because of the high price of healthy food (20%). However, nearly half (48%) reported consuming fewer taxed products, primarily for health reasons but also motivated by price increases. Key informants indicated there was high awareness but limited understanding of the tax policy.”
“The survey was conducted between 4–18 March 2020, prior to Covid-19 pandemic restrictions implemented in Bermuda.”
The full article, which is extremely comprehensive, can be read here.
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