IELTS Writing Task 2 sample answer (band score 8-9)
IELTS Essay # 1496 - People are consuming more sugar-based drinks
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IELTS Writing Task 2/ IELTS Essay:
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
In many countries, people are consuming more sugar-based drinks than ever before.
Why is this happening?
What could be done to reduce sugary drink consumption?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Model Answer:
The escalating consumption of sugar-based drinks in numerous nations has become a pressing concern, owing to their adverse health effects. Several factors contribute to this burgeoning trend including pervasive marketing strategies by beverage companies and ready accessibility of those sugary drinks. Some effective measures can curtail excessive intake of sugary beverages in those nations.
Primarily, the pervasive marketing and aggressive advertising strategies employed by the beverage industry play a pivotal role in fueling the increased consumption of sugary drinks. Ubiquitous advertisements, especially targeting the younger demographic through social media, television, and sponsorships, entice consumers with appealing packaging and persuasive branding, thereby fostering a culture of excessive consumption. For instance, the association of sugary drinks with glamour and popularity in marketing campaigns significantly influences consumer preferences, especially among adolescents.
Additionally, the ready availability and accessibility of these beverages contribute significantly to their increased intake. The pervasive presence of vending machines, convenience stores, and fast-food outlets further facilitates access, making these drinks a convenient choice for consumers, particularly in urban areas where fast-paced lifestyles often dictate dietary choices.
To mitigate the rising consumption of sugar-based drinks, multifaceted strategies need implementation. Implementing stringent regulations on marketing aimed at children and adolescents, along with raising awareness about health hazards through public health campaigns, could positively influence consumer choices. Encouraging healthier alternatives by offering subsidies or reduced pricing on healthier beverage options in schools, workplaces, and public spaces could also steer consumers towards making healthier choices.
In conclusion, the surge in the consumption of sugar-based drinks is influenced by aggressive marketing tactics and easy accessibility. Addressing this issue demands a concerted effort involving regulatory interventions, public awareness campaigns, and incentivizing healthier choices to effectively curb the adverse impacts of excessive sugary drink consumption on public health.
Idea Generation for this IELTS Essay:
Essay Question:
In many countries, people are consuming more sugar-based drinks than ever before.
Why is this happening?
What could be done to reduce sugary drink consumption?
Essay Type: Cause & Solutin Essay.
The main question of this IELTS Essay:
A) Why are people consuming more sugary drinks?
B) What measures can be taken to reduce sugary drink consumption?
Reasons for Increased Consumption of Sugary Drinks:
1. Widespread availability and aggressive marketing:
Sugary drinks are readily available in supermarkets, vending machines, and fast-food restaurants, making them an easy and convenient choice for consumers. Additionally, companies invest heavily in advertisements that promote these drinks as refreshing and enjoyable. For example, brands like Coca-Cola and Pepsi use celebrity endorsements and sponsorships to attract young consumers, increasing their appeal.
2. Appealing taste and addictive nature:
The high sugar content in these drinks makes them highly palatable, encouraging people to consume them frequently. Moreover, sugar triggers dopamine release in the brain, creating a mild addiction that leads to repeated consumption. For instance, many children and teenagers develop a habit of drinking soda daily, finding plain water less satisfying in comparison.
3. Busy lifestyles and preference for convenience:
Modern lifestyles often involve hectic schedules, making ready-to-drink beverages a preferred option over preparing fresh juices or other healthier alternatives. Many people opt for sugary drinks due to their easy accessibility. For example, office workers may choose an energy drink or a bottled soda over water when seeking a quick boost during a busy day.
4. Lack of awareness about health consequences:
Many consumers are unaware of the serious health risks associated with excessive sugar intake, such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Due to misleading marketing and insufficient education, people continue to consume sugary beverages without considering their long-term effects. For example, some sports drinks are marketed as healthy energy boosters, but they contain large amounts of sugar, contributing to weight gain.
5. Low cost compared to healthier alternatives:
Sugary drinks are often cheaper than healthier beverages such as fresh juices or bottled water, making them a more attractive option, especially for low-income individuals. Manufacturers use cost-effective ingredients, allowing them to sell these drinks at lower prices. For instance, a soft drink may cost significantly less than a freshly squeezed fruit juice, making it the preferred choice for many consumers.
6. Increased purchasing power in many countries:
As economies grow and incomes rise, people have greater disposable income to spend on non-essential items, including sugary beverages. In the past, such drinks were considered occasional treats, but with increased financial stability, they have become a regular part of daily consumption. For example, in developing nations experiencing economic growth, multinational beverage companies have reported higher sales as more consumers can afford their products.
7. Greater availability of international products:
Globalization has led to an influx of products from different countries, making sugary drinks from various brands widely accessible. In many markets, both local and international beverage companies compete by introducing new flavors and innovative packaging, attracting more consumers. For instance, Asian bubble tea, American sodas, and European fruit-flavored drinks are now available in supermarkets worldwide, increasing overall consumption.
Measures to Reduce Sugary Drink Consumption:
1. Implementing higher taxes on sugary drinks:
Governments can impose higher taxes on sugary beverages to discourage excessive consumption. Increasing the price makes these drinks less affordable, especially for frequent consumers. For example, after Mexico introduced a sugar tax, there was a noticeable decline in soda purchases, leading to improved public health outcomes.
2. Raising public awareness through education campaigns:
Public health campaigns can educate people about the dangers of excessive sugar consumption, encouraging them to make healthier choices. Schools, workplaces, and media platforms can play a crucial role in spreading awareness. For instance, initiatives such as the UK's "Sugar Smart" campaign help inform people about hidden sugars in beverages and promote healthier alternatives.
3. Encouraging healthier alternatives:
Authorities and businesses can promote healthier beverage options such as herbal teas, natural fruit juices, and infused water. Providing more appealing and affordable alternatives can help reduce reliance on sugary drinks. For example, some restaurants and cafés have started offering complimentary flavored water to encourage customers to choose healthier drinks over sodas.
4. Restricting advertising and marketing to children:
Many sugary drink advertisements specifically target children through colorful packaging and cartoon characters. Banning or regulating such marketing can reduce the appeal of these drinks to young consumers. For example, countries like Norway and Sweden have strict regulations on junk food advertising aimed at children, reducing their consumption of unhealthy products.
5. Promoting access to clean drinking water:
Ensuring the availability of free, clean drinking water in public places, schools, and workplaces can encourage people to opt for water instead of sugary drinks. People are more likely to make healthier choices
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