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Evidence lacking for 'sugar tax'

This article in the Irish Medical Times is a good illustration of the emerging parameters of the debate on a proposed tax on sugar-sweetened drinks in Ireland.

Professor Donal O’Shea, Chair of the Steering Group on the Health Impact Assessment (HIA) on such a tax, has said that ‘while there was evidence linking sugar-sweetened drinks to energy intake… the evidence became less robust and was suggestive but not conclusive’ with regard to their contribution to weight gain.

While remaining objective in his role as Chair, Professor O’Shea has expressed that the ‘absence of evidence does not mean a measure will not work’ and that ‘action is needed and where evidence is lacking on measures, it should be accumulated, with policies reviewed in that light.’

What others say: experts, What others say: media, Ireland