By Deanzer Roberts
Barbados, like many Caribbean nations, is experiencing an epidemiological transition, with shifting dietary patterns. While undernourishment has declined, obesity remains a significant concern, with approximately 66% of adults being overweight or obese. Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), particularly cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and some cancers, account for over 80% of all deaths in the country.
Food availability data reveal excessive consumption of protein, fat, and sugar, while the intake of fruits and vegetables remains inadequate—over 90% of the population fails to meet the minimum recommended levels. Simply put, Barbados is facing a chronic NCD epidemic.
To address this, the government has implemented a National Food and Nutrition Policy, supporting Baby-Friendly Hospital certification at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, a national school nutrition policy, and taxation on sugar-sweetened beverages, alcohol, and tobacco to reduce consumption of unhealthy products. Prime Minister Mia Mottley co-chaired a report entitled Healthy Taxes: A Compelling Policy for the Crisis of Today with Michael Bloomberg and former U.S. Treasury Secretary Larry Summers. This underscores the recognition of taxation as a deterrent while also raising revenue to offset rising health expenditures due to unhealthy lifestyles.
However, the government acknowledges that taxation alone is not enough. A strong public education campaign is needed to change behaviors. To this end, $1 million per year will be allocated for public education over the next two years, focusing on dietary changes and physical activity. Starting June 1, 2025, an excise tax of 20% will be placed on high-salt snacks, including Pringles, salted nuts, corn curls, salted popcorn, tortilla chips, salted pretzels, and salt crackers among others.
The government has also appealed to hotels, restaurants, and cook shops to remove salt shakers from tables and counters, encouraging people to taste their food before adding salt. While traditional dishes like salted pigtails and saltfish remain popular, citizens are urged to prepare them with reduced salt content.
This comprehensive approach—combining policy, taxation, education, and behavioral change—aims to curb the prevalence of NCDs, improve national health, and promote longer, healthier lives for all Barbadians.
