GT Writing Task 2 / Essay Sample # 172
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Overconsumption of sugar is unhealthy. Some people think that governments should take the responsibility to control sugar intake while others think it is the responsibility of individuals.
Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Model Answer:
People know that overconsumption of sugar is detrimental for health but how that should be controlled is somewhat controversial. Many believe that governments ought to shoulder the onus of controlling sugar consumption, yet others place accountability for curbing sugar intake on the individuals. This essay will expound both views, and I believe that both individuals and governments should take responsibility.
To commence with, controlling sugar intake is an obligation of the authority so as to keep the nation fit and healthy. The authority spends millions of dollars to treat and prevent diseases, and increasing sugar intake can be responsible for many people falling victim to those diseases. With a comprehensive set of policies, governments can curb overconsumption of sugar efficiently and effectively. They can set standards for the sugary foods and restrict the production and sells of harmful sugar items. They can also monitor food supplied to hospitals, workplaces and schools, and run campaigns to make the mass people aware of the dangers of higher consumption of sugar and sweet items. Likewise, another effective policy the government can implement is the restriction on sugary food advertising and commercial promotion. Put simply, governments ought to tighten regulations on food advertising to children, including sugary items so that the acceptability, awareness and availability of sugary food advertised are reduced.
On the flip side, individuals are the cornerstone of any business and the money they spend shapes the products sold in the market. In other words, the more consumers tend to purchase sugary products, the more they are produced. If people do not purchase such products enriched in sugar, then it would definitely reduce their production. The boycott of plastic packaging in many places have brought plastic production to a lower level and this is the best example of public responsibility. Similarly, the production of sugary foods will be cut if the individuals boycott those products.
To conclude, excessive sugar intake is harmful to people and both the authority and people should shoulder the onus of reducing the production and intake of sugar. Their collaborative efforts will improve the situation and public health.