The proposal to tax unhealthy foods shows that government bodies finally acknowledge the harm caused by decades of processed, unhealthy food in the American diet. However, it’s a mistake to think that the same government—whose policies and alliances with the food industry helped create this crisis—can resolve it with sweeping, restrictive measures.
At Goodnight’s Red River, we believe in the freedom to make informed, empowered choices about food. For too long, however, people have been misled into unhealthy choices by a food system designed around profit rather than health. Taxing “unhealthy” foods might make them more expensive. Still, it doesn’t address the lack of accessible, nutritious options or the aggressive marketing tactics that influence dietary habits from a young age. True freedom of choice requires access to real food, unclouded by industry influence.
A Step in the Right Direction—But Let’s Not Forget Who Caused This Problem
This proposed tax acknowledges that a processed, sugar-laden diet is harmful. However, it’s worth remembering that government agencies played a role in creating this problem. Through dietary guidelines emphasizing processed grains and low-fat, high-sugar alternatives, they shaped the nation’s health landscape with the help of their “food industrial complex” allies. Expecting the same institutions to fix this issue by simply raising prices on certain foods feels like another overreach.
A truly impactful solution would focus on creating policies that make whole, unprocessed foods accessible and affordable. Imagine a world where grass-fed beef, full-fat dairy, and fresh produce are within reach of every family’s budget—without punitive taxes. This isn’t just about economics; it’s about re-establishing trust and giving people real choices, not pushing them toward “approved” processed substitutes marketed as “healthy.”
The government’s willingness to address unhealthy eating habits is a sign of progress, but we must be cautious. Rather than heavy-handed taxes and restrictions, we need a system that champions real food and empowers people to make healthy, informed choices for themselves. We’re asking for genuine freedom—the kind that enables families to choose whole, nutrient-dense foods without manipulation from industry or government mandates. Taxing bad choices won’t solve a problem that requires access to good ones.