Online Reporter
Zimpapers Reporter
A salt tax could be levied on manufacturers of food products with salt content exceeding envisaged set sodium limits as a way of promoting a healthy society, former Health and Child Care Minister Dr Obadiah Moyo has said.
It is believed that the World Health Organisation backs such fiscal measures such as taxes on high-salt foods, not on raw salt, as part of a package that includes reformulation targets, labelling and public education.
“First, we set sodium limits for processed products — soups, stocks, processed meats, salty snacks. Second, manufacturers must reduce salt to meet those limits,” he said.
“Third, if they exceed the threshold, they pay a higher excise tax; the saltier the product, the higher the rate. Fourth, I want families to hear this — consumers are not taxed. You are protected by cheaper, lower-salt options and by warnings about salt use at home.”
Dr Moyo, who is national health advisor for the National Men’s Forum for Economic Development, a private organisation, explained that high salt intake leads to high blood pressure, which in turn leads to chronic kidney disease, stroke and heart failure.
“Revenue from non-compliant manufacturers can be channeled to prevention: BP screening, education in clinics and schools, treatment support. The tax itself nudges industry and shoppers toward healthier choices,” he said.
Dr Moyo said the current proposal was practical, evidence-based and focused on saving lives.
