New food strategy will not include a tax on sugar

The report stresses the reliance on sugar and salt within many of the processed foods the public consumes. One potential reason that the report gives for this is that, on average, highly processed foods are three times cheaper per calorie than healthier foods.

However, consuming these highly processed foods can have a negative effect on general health. The report states, "Poor diet contributes to an estimated 64,000 deaths every year in England. More than half of over-45s are living with diet-related health conditions."

The role of sugar in tooth decay is well documented and accepted. Henry’s report reinforces this link by providing data suggesting that children of five years old are three times more likely to experience tooth decay in low-income households due to these foods.