In the News Teaching Activity – reducing the social costs of obesity (Oct 2024)

The National Food Strategy has been setting out plans for a healthier and more environmentally friendly food choices.

Obesity is rising in the UK, particularly in disadvantaged areas, costing the NHS £6.5 billion annually. The social costs are estimated to be as high as 3% of the UK's GDP. The National Food Strategy, led by Henry Dimbleby, offers solutions with 14 key recommendations, including taxes on sugar and salt, free school meals, and promoting healthier, eco-friendly food. Poor diets and food insecurity are tied to poverty, limiting healthier choices, making poverty reduction crucial for better food decisions.

How can we reduce obesity and improve diets? - Economics Observatory

1. According to the article from the Economics Observatory, why is it economically important to reduce obesity?

2. Using an MSB/MSC diagram, show the net welfare loss caused by over consumption of food that contributes to obesity.

3. Evaluate the solutions to the obesity problem that the National Food Strategy suggested. Can you think of any others that could also be effective?