Join the petition against Number 10’s unfair ‘health tax’
In March 2008, ASDA launched a campaign calling for a reduction in VAT on 100% fruit juices and smoothies to bring an end to a tax that unfairly penalises people for choosing healthier options.
Under current tax law, people pay zero VAT on ‘essential’ foods and drinks such as milkshakes, frozen pizzas and chips but 17.5% on ‘luxury’ items such as smoothies and 100% fruit juices. ASDA is calling for this to be reduced to 5%, which is the minimum allowed under EU law.
To date, more than 27,000 people have signed ASDA’s online and in-store petitions which call on the government to reduce the illogical tax. Supporters include the British Nutrition Foundation, British Heart Foundation, Royal College of Nursing, askamum, TheBabyWebsite, Health and Wellbeing UK and ITV’s resident GP Dr Chris Steele.
From 8th September 2008, as part of its campaign, ASDA will be slashing the price of all 100 per cent fruit juices and smoothies to encourage its customers to work towards their five a day.
By putting its money where its mouth is, ASDA hopes to illustrate that the current VAT law makes no sense. We all know we should be eating more fruit and vegetables and price often plays a big part in deciding which items to buy. So why should we pay a premium for making the healthier choices?
