IELTS Writing task 2
Task 2: More and more people are becoming seriously overweight. Some people say that the price
increase of fattening foods will solve this problem. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Obesity rates have been steadily rising, raising concerns about the overall well-being of individuals. To
address this issue, some argue that increasing the price of high-calorie foods would provide a solution.
I believe that this approach is insufficient at best.
On one hand, raising the price of fattening foods can certainly produce a positive impact on curbing
the obesity epidemic. It is quite obvious that excessive consumption is mostly traced back to the
availability and affordability of unhealthy food options. By increasing the price of these items,
individuals will be deterred from frequent purchases, as higher price generally leads to reduced
demand. Consequently, this measure may encourage people to make healthier food choices, which
usually include fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean meats, leading to a reduction in obesity rates. [well reasoned]
On the other hand, there are limitations to the effectiveness of price manipulation, mostly concerning
the equality in its application. The socio-economic factor plays a crucial role here, as individuals from
lower-income backgrounds may still find it challenging to afford healthier alternatives. Additionally,
price increase alone fails to address the root causes of obesity, such as the lack of education on
nutrition and limited access to exercise facilities. Therefore, solely relying on price hikes may not yield
comprehensive and long-lasting results. [there’s virtually nothing to comment – everything’s good]
From my perspective, while raising the price of fattening foods can be a step in the right direction
[great collocation], it is crucial to supplement it with other comprehensive measures. Public
awareness campaigns on healthy eating habits and the importance of regular exercise should be
implemented on a national scale. Moreover, the government must spare no effort to improve the
accessibility and affordability of nutritious food options, particularly in socioeconomically
disadvantaged areas. Combining these initiatives with price increases can create a more holistic approach to combating obesity.
In conclusion, although raising the price of high-calorie foods may discourage their consumption and
have some positive effects on reducing obesity rates, it should not be considered a standalone
solution. A multi-faceted approach that includes education, accessibility and affordability of healthier
food choices is necessary for long-term success.