Overview
- With votes from the CDU, Greens, SPD and SSW, the Landtag formally asked the state government to lobby for a federal tax or manufacturer levy on high-sugar beverages.
- The SPD’s separate bid to extend a producer levy to other sugary foods failed to secure a majority.
- Health Minister Kerstin von der Decken supported a reformulation-driven approach, citing British evidence of reduced sugar intake among children.
- Parties disagree on earmarking revenue for prevention and on scope questions, including how to treat sugar substitutes.
- Next steps involve federal advocacy, with options under consideration such as a Bundesrat initiative or raising the issue at the health ministers’ conference.