At the end of last week, the NFO expressed its concerns about the plan to introduce taxes on pure fruit juices made from Dutch apples and pears in a letter to Members of Parliament from various parties. This tax is also known as the ‘juice tax’. In the letter, which was signed by NFO director Siep Koning and NFO chairman Ron Mulders, the NFO indicates why the proposed consumption tax has negative consequences for our industry and the image of Dutch fruit, NFO reports.
In the letter, the NFO emphasizes, among other things, that taxing these juices will increase the price and thus discourage consumers from choosing healthy, locally produced options. In addition, it is emphasized that not all apples and pears that are harvested meet the aesthetic standards required for sale as fresh fruit. “These less attractive apples and pears are often used for the production of pure fruit juices, which means no food waste occurs. If a tax is introduced on these juices, this could lead to more limited purchases of these less attractive, but still tasty fruits. This would not only mean loss of income for fruit growers, but also promote food waste, which is contrary to sustainability objectives,” the letter said.
The NFO also emphasizes that Dutch apples and pears are known for their quality and taste. However, introducing a tax on juices made from only these high-quality products could lead to negative perceptions. “It could result in the perception that these fruit juices are just as unhealthy as energy drinks, potentially impacting the demand for and consumption of Dutch fruit products. This could be detrimental to our fruit growing sector, both organic and integrated cultivation, and influence the choice of Dutch consumers,” the letter states.
It also states that introducing taxes on locally produced juices could encourage the consumption of imported drinks, leading to an increase in CO2 emissions and greater pressure on the environment.
The NFO asks the Dutch government to carefully consider the aforementioned arguments before taking further steps regarding the proposed consumption tax. “It is essential that policy measures support the Dutch fruit growing sector and preserve the reputation of our fruit, while at the same time promoting sustainability and healthy, plant-based food choices.”
Caroline van der Plas of the BoerBurgerBeweging indicated in a response to the letter that she had already drawn attention to this subject during the General Financial Considerations and had also submitted a motion on this matter. However, this was rejected last Tuesday.
Source: NFO