The British Dental Association (BDA) has welcomed today’s launch of a petition by Jamie Oliver, calling on government to introduce a sugar tax.
The chef and food campaigner’s documentary Sugar Rush, airs this evening. The film includes harrowing footage of Mario, an otherwise healthy six year old boy who regularly cleans his teeth, having his rotten teeth extracted because of his fondness for sugary drinks.
Tooth decay is the leading cause of hospital admissions among young children in Britain. The BDA has led calls for urgent action to lower the nation’s sugar intake, with measures ranging from lowering the recommended daily allowance, through to action on marketing, labelling and sales taxes.
Mick Armstrong, Chair of the British Dental Association, said:
“Britain is addicted to sugar, and we are all paying the price. Government can’t keep ignoring the advice of scientists and health professionals, and no option, from ad bans to sales taxes, should be left off the table.
“Jamie Oliver's new documentary provides a stark reminder of the damage sugar is doing to our mouths and our waistlines. But it also shows what’s possible when professionals, policymakers and parents work together.”
