Valikoitumisharha

Valikoitumisharha, also known as the "Food Choice Tax" in English, is a tax levied on certain types of food products in Finland. The purpose of this tax is to encourage healthier eating habits by making less healthy food options more expensive. The tax was introduced in 2014 and is administered by the Finnish Tax Administration.

The tax applies to a variety of food products, including sugary drinks, soft drinks, and certain types of processed meats. The tax rate is 1.5 euros per liter for sugary drinks and 0.15 euros per kilogram for processed meats. The tax is not applied to water, milk, or other beverages that are not considered sugary drinks.

The intention behind the Valikoitumisharha is to reduce the consumption of unhealthy foods and promote a healthier diet. By making less healthy food options more expensive, the tax aims to encourage consumers to choose healthier alternatives. The tax has been a subject of debate, with some arguing that it is an effective way to promote healthier eating habits, while others contend that it may not be the most efficient or equitable way to achieve this goal.

The Valikoitumisharha has been criticized for potentially disproportionately affecting lower-income individuals, as they may be less able to afford healthier food options. However, proponents of the tax argue that the benefits of promoting healthier eating habits outweigh this potential drawback. The tax is reviewed periodically to ensure that it continues to achieve its intended purpose.