A recent study by the Corvinus University of Budapest reveals that the public health product tax (known as the “Csipszadó”) introduced in 2011 has not succeeded in reducing the consumption of unhealthy foods in Hungary. In fact, the study shows that over the past eight years, Hungarians have consumed more unhealthy products, such as chocolate, sugary snacks, and soft drinks, than before the tax was implemented. The share of these products in total food spending increased from 5.9% in 2010 to 7.4% in 2018.
The research also highlights that the tax disproportionately affects lower-income households, who pay a higher percentage of their income towards the tax compared to wealthier households. Despite its intentions, the tax has failed to achieve its primary goal of reducing unhealthy food consumption and has instead exacerbated existing inequalities.
The study suggests that new approaches are needed in public health policy to effectively reduce the consumption of unhealthy foods and improve the overall health of the population.
