In an effort to combat obesity, physicians in Ontario are calling for higher taxes on junk food and graphic warning labels, similar to those found on cigarette packages, on food that has no nutritional value.
The Ontario Medical Association is recommending legislation to require calorie content to be listed and restricting the availability of high sugar foods in sports facilities.
OMA is also proposing taxes be lowered on healthy foods
Some Ottawa teens said regardless of warning labels, they will still eat what they want.
“Usually I’ll go to McDonald’s, buy a burger and come here and by a can of iced tea and a snack,” said Kyle Mason, a grade 10 student.
Other teens said they will still buy junk food regardless of an additional tax.
“I think that’s the parent’s choice to decide what the kids eat and drink. I don’t think government should be involved in that stuff,” said student Keplet Belance
Some Ottawa residents said graphic warning labels on junk food packages are not necessary.
“I wouldn’t like to see my heart-clogged artery on my french fry bag,” said John Calvert.
The Canadian Taxpayers' Federation said the idea hasn't worked in other countries and it only hurts small businesses.
But Mohamad Fargat, a convenience store owner, says he supports the doctors.
“I don’t mind not selling the other stuff as long as the kids eat healthy,” Farhat said.
It is estimated that obesity-related health issues cost the province nearly $2.5 billion each year.
With a report from CTV Ottawa's Joanne Schnurr
