May 4, 2016
Dear Councilmember,
Weavers Way Co-op runs two grocery stores in Northwest Philadelphia. Although we do sell sweetened beverages, we are fully in favor of Mayor Kenney’s proposal to impose a 3-cents-an ounce tax on these products.
The evidence is compelling that ever-cheaper sugar and high-fructose corn syrup has supported an increase in soda consumption and contributed to a rise in obesity in the past 50 years. Obesity is implicated in a number of health problems that end up costing society millions of dollars.
Soda, sports drinks and iced teas loaded with sugar are not staples. They are not nutritious, not good for us and barely even food.
Meanwhile, using revenues from a soda “sin tax” to support Pre-K programs would benefit the very communities the beverage lobbyists are disingenuously claiming the levy would hurt.
Ensuring that the community has access to high-quality food is one of the Ends, or principles, upon which Weavers Way Co-op is based. Another is supporting a thriving local economy.
By reducing the consumption of sugary beverages and increasing educational opportunities, the soda tax has the potential to fulfill both of these goals.
Sincerely,
