The topic of healthy diets and nutrition has been consistently appearing in IELTS Writing Task 2, reflecting its growing importance in modern society. Based on analysis of past exam questions, this theme appears in approximately 15-20% of health-related topics, making it crucial for IELTS candidates to be well-prepared.
As The benefits of healthy eating habits continue to gain attention worldwide, let’s examine a recent IELTS question on this topic.
Question Analysis
Some people believe that governments should make laws regarding nutrition and healthy eating. Others think that people should be free to choose what they eat. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss arguments for government intervention in dietary choices
- Present views supporting individual freedom of food choice
- Provide a balanced opinion with supporting examples
Government regulation of healthy eating versus personal dietary choices
Band 8 Sample Essay
The debate over whether governments should regulate citizens’ dietary choices has become increasingly relevant in our modern society where obesity and diet-related health issues are rising. While both governmental intervention and personal freedom have their merits, I believe a balanced approach combining both elements is most effective.
Those who support government regulation argue that it can effectively address public health concerns. For example, many countries have successfully implemented laws requiring nutritional information on packaging and limiting unhealthy ingredients in processed foods. Additionally, as demonstrated by how to promote healthy eating habits in children, school meal programs regulated by governments have significantly improved children’s nutrition.
However, proponents of individual choice contend that dietary decisions are deeply personal and should remain free from government interference. They maintain that people have different nutritional needs and preferences, and enforcing strict dietary laws could be culturally insensitive and impractical. Furthermore, education and awareness campaigns might be more effective than legislation in promoting healthy eating habits.
In my opinion, while complete government control would be excessive, some level of regulation combined with educational initiatives represents the optimal approach. Governments can establish basic nutritional standards and provide guidance while still allowing individuals to make informed choices about their diet. This balanced strategy could include mandatory food labeling, restrictions on harmful additives, and public health campaigns, while respecting personal dietary preferences.
Band 6-7 Sample Essay
Nowadays, there is a discussion about whether governments should control what people eat through laws or if people should have freedom in their food choices. This essay will discuss both sides of this argument.
On one side, government control of nutrition through laws can help protect public health. When governments make rules about food, they can stop companies from selling very unhealthy products. For example, some countries have laws about how much sugar can be in drinks, which helps reduce obesity. Also, should school lunches be healthier is an important question that shows how government rules can help children eat better.
However, many people think food choice should be personal. They say that different people need different types of food based on their health, culture, and lifestyle. Also, if governments make too many rules about food, it might be hard for some people to follow their traditional diets.
I think both sides have good points, but some government control is necessary. The best way is to have some basic rules about food safety and quality, but also let people choose what they want to eat. This can help protect public health while respecting personal freedom.
Key Vocabulary
- nutritional (adj) /njuːˈtrɪʃənl/ – relating to food and nourishment
- intervention (n) /ˌɪntəˈvenʃn/ – the action of becoming involved in something
- regulatory (adj) /ˈreɡjələtɔːri/ – controlling or maintaining order
- implementation (n) /ˌɪmplɪmenˈteɪʃn/ – the process of putting a plan into action
- obesity (n) /əʊˈbiːsəti/ – the state of being very overweight
For further practice, try writing your own essay on this topic or explore related themes like importance of plant-based diets for health. Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback.
