Scientists advocate for junk food tax as UK faces alarming childhood obesity rates

Childhood obesity in the UK has reached critical levels, prompting health experts to call for urgent government action.

Chief Medical Officer Professor Sir Chris Whitty has highlighted the dire situation, urging policies to curb the availability and consumption of unhealthy, ultra-processed foods.

His recent report, published in December, emphasises the need for bold measures to tackle the root causes of rising obesity levels, particularly in deprived areas.

According to the report, 27 per cent of children aged 2-15 were classified as overweight in 2022, with an additional 15 per cent categorised as obese. These statistics underscore the growing public health crisis, with many children living in “healthy food deserts” where access to nutritious options is limited, exacerbating the problem.

The government has taken some steps to address this issue, including a new restriction on junk food advertising, set to take effect in October 2025. Under the policy, unhealthy food ads will be banned before 9 pm on TV and online. However, Professor Whitty’s report argues that more drastic measures, such as a junk food tax, may be necessary to drive meaningful change.

The report, developed in collaboration with the Impact on Urban Health team, also critiques the voluntary nature of past initiatives aimed at reducing fat, sugar, and salt in processed foods. Experts recommend making these reductions mandatory, as previous voluntary efforts have failed to deliver significant results.

Despite these recommendations, the government has yet to act on them. However, Health Secretary Wes Streeting has previously praised the 2018 sugar tax as a “highly effective” public health intervention. Advocates hope this success can inspire further action to tackle the UK’s obesity crisis, particularly among its youngest and most vulnerable populations.