A tax on weight loss products based on fiction, not facts.

Abstract

The recent article by Austin et al., "Could a tax on unhealthy products sold for weight loss reduce consumer use? A novel estimation of potential taxation effects," is disappointing for its lack of objectivity and its misrepresentation. While the conclusion is not surprising, the misinformation woven into the narrative is. Ultimately, their tax solution drives up cost; fails to distinguish between those willing to pay higher prices and those who are not; and may have relatively little influence on overall purchasing behavior.