Type 2 diabetes and obesity are consuming a large majority of the Mexican population, as their soda consumption increases to one of the highest in the world. In an effort to strike back against diet-related chronic diseases, Mexico has decided to place an excise tax on beverages with added sugars.

The process began back in 2013 after the Mexican Congress approved a 1-peso-per-liter tax on all drinks that contain added sugars, excluding milk and medicinal beverages. This proposed tax was part of the National Strategy for the Prevention and Control of Overweight, Obesity, and Diabetes. The tax officially became effective in 2014.

Over the course of the following year, the sugar tax brought in produced a 2.6 billion dollar revenue which was then used to fund obesity prevention programs, and supply schools and public areas with water fountains. Despite resistance from lobbyists from the beverage industry, the Senate stayed true to their original tax proposal. They are now even proposing a 20% tax on sugary drinks in accordance with the recommendation of the World Health Organization.

This sugar tax is so important because, in 2011, the cost of diabetes-related health costs for the Mexican government was projected to escalate to 7.7 billion US dollars. In order to prevent these costs from elevating further, proper action was sought.

The tax on sugary beverages seems to be working! A recent study by the British Medical Journal found that the sale of sugary drinks dropped by 12% by December 2014, while the sale of untaxed beverages, including water, rose by 4%!

Are you looking for healthy alternatives to sugary soft drinks?

Check out this guide to help kick that soda habit! If you are looking to cut back on sugar, try out these delicious beverage suggestions from our Food Monster App!

Fizzy Coconut, Lime and Mint Kombucha Elixir 

This Fizzy Coconut, Lime and Mint Kombucha Elixir is deliciously carbonated to help combat soda cravings. It also is filled with gut-healthy probiotics from the kombucha!

Turmeric Glow Lemonade

Nothing is more refreshing on a hot, summer’s day than a tall glass of lemonade. This Turmeric Glow Lemonade is refreshing, free of refined sugars, and anti-inflammatory!

Chia Ginger Fresca

This Chia Ginger Fresca is bursting with vitamin C and fiber- it is quite delicious as well.

Looking for a healthy alternative to sugary sports drinks? Check out this guide, and also feel free to download our Food Monster App, which is available for both Android and iPhone and can also be found on Instagram and Facebook. The app has more than 10,000 plant-based, allergy-friendly recipes, and subscribers gain access to new recipes every day. Check it out!

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