Government should make laws about people’s nutrition and food

IELTS Band 9 Essay About Government should make laws about people’s nutrition and food

Here we take a look at a band 9 ielts writing task 2 sample about “Government should make laws about people’s nutrition and food”. This sample then will be further analyzed for its vocabulary, grammar and format, so we see how it has qualified for such band score. We also suggest over 100 band 9 IELTS sample released in 2024.

General Explanation about government should make laws about people’s nutrition and food

The debate over whether governments should legislate people’s dietary choices or leave it to individual discretion is highly contentious. Advocates for regulation argue that unhealthy eating contributes to a public health crisis, burdening healthcare systems and reducing productivity. They believe that laws can promote better habits and reduce lifestyle-related diseases. Conversely, opponents emphasize personal freedom, asserting that individuals should have the autonomy to decide what they consume. Imposing dietary restrictions, they argue, might be seen as government overreach. Striking a balance between public health priorities and respecting personal liberties is crucial for addressing this complex issue effectively.

Band 9 Sample Answer

Some people believe that government should make laws about people’s nutrition and food choices. Others argue that it is their choice. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

The question of whether governments should enforce laws regarding nutrition and food choices or allow individuals to retain autonomy over their diets is a polarizing issue. Both perspectives offer valid arguments, but the most effective solution lies in a balanced approach.

Proponents of government intervention highlight the public health implications of poor dietary habits. Junk food and unhealthy lifestyles contribute significantly to the prevalence of non-communicable diseases, such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, which place an enormous strain on healthcare systems. By implementing regulations, such as taxes on sugary products, mandatory labeling, or restrictions on advertising unhealthy foods, governments can steer public behavior toward healthier options. Historical precedents, like anti-smoking campaigns, illustrate how legislative measures can lead to significant health improvements across populations. Moreover, individuals do not always act in their best interests due to a lack of knowledge or willpower, making external guidance necessary.

On the other hand, critics argue that imposing dietary laws infringes on individual freedoms. Personal choice is a fundamental right, and dictating what people should eat risks being perceived as paternalistic. Critics also question the effectiveness of such laws, suggesting that education and awareness campaigns are more sustainable ways to encourage healthier lifestyles. For instance, nutritional education in schools and public campaigns promoting balanced diets empower individuals to make informed decisions without feeling coerced. Additionally, the economic implications of such regulations, particularly for businesses in the food industry, cannot be overlooked. Striking a balance between public health priorities and economic interests is vital to avoid unintended consequences.

In my opinion, while respecting individual autonomy is essential, the government has a responsibility to safeguard public health. A hybrid approach combining regulation and education would be the most effective. For example, governments can introduce taxes on unhealthy foods while simultaneously promoting awareness campaigns and subsidizing healthy alternatives. This strategy ensures that individuals retain their freedom to choose while being encouraged to make healthier decisions through both financial incentives and education.

In conclusion, while government intervention in food choices may appear to conflict with personal freedoms, the public health benefits it offers are undeniable. By adopting a balanced strategy, societies can achieve better health outcomes without compromising individual autonomy or economic stability.

Selected Academic Words about Government should make laws about people’s nutrition

1. Public health (/ˈpʌblɪk hɛlθ/)
   • Sentence: Investment in public health reduces the burden on healthcare systems.
2. Non-communicable (/ˌnɒn kəˈmjuːnɪkəbl̩/)
   • Sentence: Diseases like diabetes and hypertension are classified as non-communicable illnesses.
3. Paternalistic (/pəˌtɜːrnəˈlɪstɪk/)
   • Sentence: A paternalistic approach to governance can sometimes lead to public dissatisfaction.
4. Mandatory (/ˈmændətɔːri/)
   • Sentence: Wearing seat belts is mandatory in most countries to enhance safety.
5. Autonomy (/ɔːˈtɒnəmi/)
   • Sentence: Autonomy is a cornerstone of democratic societies.

5 Advanced Grammar Structures and Their Contribution

1. Complex Sentences with Subordination
   • Example: “By implementing regulations, such as taxes on sugary products, mandatory labeling, or restrictions on advertising unhealthy foods, governments can steer public behavior toward healthier options.”
   • Benefit: Enhances clarity and shows the writer’s ability to connect ideas effectively.
2. Passive Voice
   • Example: “Junk food and unhealthy lifestyles are often linked to non-communicable diseases.”
   • Benefit: Creates an objective and formal tone by focusing on the subject rather than the agent.
3. Nominalization
   • Example: “The economic implications of such regulations cannot be overlooked.”
   • Benefit: Adds academic formality by transforming verbs into nouns.
4. Conditional Sentences
   • Example: “If governments fail to regulate, the burden on healthcare systems will continue to grow.”
   • Benefit: Demonstrates hypothetical thinking and supports a logical argument.
5. Parallel Structures
   • Example: “Taxes on unhealthy foods, public campaigns, and subsidies for healthier options…”
   • Benefit: Improves readability and emphasizes key points through symmetry.

Writing Format and Achieving Band 9

1. Clear Structure:
   • The essay includes an introduction, two balanced body paragraphs, and a conclusion with a strong opinion.
2. Balanced Argumentation:
   • Both views are thoroughly analyzed with supporting evidence, ensuring task response.
3. Lexical Resource:
   • Sophisticated vocabulary like “paternalistic,” “non-communicable,” and “autonomy” demonstrates a wide range of expression.
4. Grammatical Range:
   • Use of advanced structures, such as conditional sentences and nominalization, enhances complexity.
5. Cohesion and Coherence:
   • Logical flow with cohesive devices like “on the other hand” and “for instance” ensures clarity.

By adhering to these principles, the essay achieves the precision and depth required for a Band 9 response.

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