Europe Considers New Taxes on Ultra-Processed Foods
Officials are reviewing potential food levies as these products now make up over 25% of average daily caloric intake.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Nutrition
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Should governments implement special taxes on ultra-processed foods to discourage consumption?
European officials are exploring new taxes on ultra-processed foods as reports show these products now account for 27% of average daily energy intake across the continent. This policy push follows research into the consolidation of food businesses by tobacco companies.
Why it matters
Rising consumption of industrially processed goods is prompting European lawmakers to consider financial levies to curb public health risks. These potential taxes aim to reshape the food landscape and offset rising obesity rates.
Current surveillance indicates ultra-processed foods contribute 27% of daily energy intake across Europe, ranging from 14% in Romania to 45% in Sweden. Scientific advisers are still developing a formal policy definition for these foods, which is not expected until March 2027.
The details
Ultra-processed foods are produced using specific industrial processes, including extrusion, moulding, and pre-frying. Analysis shows that tobacco companies, which owned many North American food businesses between 1963 and 2007, often utilized similar flavoring systems and additives across both industries. Today, European officials are evaluating how these industrial methods influence dietary patterns.
Timeline
Between 1960 and 2010, Swedish consumption of ultra-processed foods increased by 142%.
Tobacco companies held significant ownership of North American food businesses from 1963 to 2007.
Hungary implemented a specific tax on certain snack foods in 2011.
A standardized policy definition for ultra-processed foods is expected in March 2027.
Germany is scheduled to implement a tax on sugary drinks in July 2027.
Health Landscape
Legislative efforts to tax unhealthy food items have expanded since the introduction of Hungary's 2011 snack food tax. European nations are now evaluating these levies as a broader strategy to mitigate the impact of industrial food additives on population health.
As European officials explore new levies on ultra-processed foods, you may notice changing prices or labeling on packaged snacks. These discussions underscore the value of reviewing ingredient lists for products created through industrial processes like extrusion or pre-frying.
The takeaway
The rise of ultra-processed foods, now a significant portion of daily caloric intake, is driving a shift toward new fiscal policies in Europe. Consider discussing your current intake of highly processed items with a registered dietitian or your physician to better understand your nutritional habits.
Further reading
Learn more about the role of food processing and dietary health in our Nutrition section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Euractiv DE.
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Should governments implement special taxes on ultra-processed foods to discourage consumption?
