Table 2 Key frames and arguments evident in submissions on Bermuda’s proposed sugar tax
Frame | Related arguments | Respondents using this frame |
|---|---|---|
Complexity | Obesity is a complex problem driven by multiple factors There is no single intervention that will ‘fix’ obesity | Commercial actors (international, regional and local), health actors |
Partnership | Commercial actors have already taken steps to reduce obesity, thus demonstrating their commitment as responsible social actors A sugar tax risks undermining existing partnerships between business and government, particularly in relation to Bermuda’s tourism industry | Commercial actors (international, regional and local) |
Products | Ultra-processed high-sugar products also deliver health benefits (providing energy and nutrients, boosting wellbeing) These products are not inherently ‘unhealthy’; rather, health problems arise when individuals fail to moderate their consumption | Commercial actors (international, regional and local) |
Personal responsibility | Policy responses should focus on enabling informed individual choice | Commercial actors (international, regional and local) |
Affordability | Policies to tackle obesity should include measures to increase the affordability of healthy foods | Health actors (local) |
Evidence | We should focus on policy measures for which there’s existing evidence of effectiveness | Health actors (local) |