The WHO guideline provides evidence-based recommendations for Member States on using fiscal policies, such as food taxation and subsidies, to promote healthy diets and influence consumer behaviour.
In today’s food environments, consumers face challenges in making healthy and affordable dietary choices due to the widespread availability and marketing of energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods. Affordability is a key factor influencing consumer demand for various foods and beverages. Recognizing the potential of fiscal measures, including taxation and subsidies, to promote healthier diets, this WHO guideline provides Member States with evidence-based recommendations and implementation strategies. The guideline focuses on taxation of unhealthy foods and sugar-sweetened beverages, and subsidies for healthy foods, aiming to alter consumer behavior by making healthier options more affordable.