A provincial health group wants the Alberta government to introduce a tax on sugary drinks like pop, energy drinks, and certain fruit juices.
Seventeen health-related organizations make up the Alberta Policy Coalition for Chronic Disease Prevention, and registered dietitian Rachel Prowse is part of the group lobbying for the added tax.
The coalition suggests putting a 50 cent/per litre taxon sugary drinks, a move that would encourage consumers to purchase smaller beverages.
“What this tax does is it encourages consumption of smaller portions, because the 50 cent levy is lesser on smaller portions than on larger portions,” Prowse said.
Plus, the coalition points out the tax might come at a time when the province is trying to find ways to increase revenue.
“It will generate approximately $158 million for the province,” Prowse said.
Prowse warned of the ill-effects sugar can have – including heart disease, Type II Diabetes, obesity and high blood pressure.
It’s hoped such a tax could go towards a wellness foundation, to put funds towards provincial health programs.
CTV News spoke to the office of Health Minister Stephen Mandel – a spokesperson wouldn’t say if such a tax is on the table, but said they will look at every option to raise revenue.
With files from Carmen Leibel
