What is known about the effectiveness of economic instruments to reduce consumption of foods high in saturated fats and other energy-dense foods for preventing and treating obesity?

ABSTRACT

This is a Health Evidence Network (HEN) synthesis report summarizing the available evidence concerning the effectiveness of economic instruments (including taxes, price policies and incentives) in containing or reducing food consumption, particularly of foods high in saturated fats and other energy-dense foods. Available evidence suggests – but does not demonstrate – that introduction of policy-related economic instruments, particularly in the form of taxes and price policies, could reduce food consumption, including of high saturated fat and other energy-dense foods, and increase the purchasing of healthful foods. HEN, initiated and coordinated by the WHO Regional Office for Europe, is an information service for public health and health care decision-makers in the WHO European Region. Other interested parties might also benefit from HEN.