Work

Fat taxes and thin subsidies: Prices, diet, and health outcomes

Year: 2005

Type: article

Abstract: “Fat taxes” have been proposed as a way of addressing food-related health concerns. In this paper, we investigate the possible effects of “thin subsidies”, consumption subsidies for healthier foods. Empirical simulations, based on data from the Continuing Study of Food Intake by Individuals, are used to calculate the potential health benefits of subsidies on certain classes of fruits and vegetables in the United States. Estimates of the cost per statistical life saved through such subsidies compare favorably with existing U.S. government programs.

Source: Food Economics - Acta Agriculturae Scandinavica Section C

DOI: 10.1080/16507540500534879

Authors: Sean B. Cash, David L. Sunding, David Zilberman

Institutions: University of Alberta, University of California, Berkeley

Language: English

Topic: Economics of Agriculture and Food Markets

Subfield: Economics and Econometrics

Field: Economics, Econometrics and Finance

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Zero hunger, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funders: U.S. Department of Agriculture, University of California Berkeley, Giannini Foundation of Agricultural Economics, Fordham University