I love Serious Eats! Its one of my favourite food websites and is my to go page when wasting time on the internet. While browsing today I came across a product review that blew my mind Check out these cupcake mixes which cost $14.95. These all natural cupcake mixes from Williams Sonoma require you to add eggs, butter, and milk as well. The natural frosting costs 19.95 for 24oz.
       Finding a recipe online and making your own homemade cupcakes would be much cheaper, and take about the same time as purchasing from Williams Sonoma. In fact you could go to Bulk Bulk and get all the ingredients, muffin liners, and cake pan for less than the price of the icing. According to the Serious Eats review the cupcakes were good, but not worth the pri.ce, or the effort of creaming the butter.
      I could buy a delicious cupcake from a variety of bakerys in Toronto for a similar price.
Check out Bobbette and Belles 2.95
So what would prompt someone to purchase this expensive mix? Fancy packaging? More money than they know what to do with?
      In other news, somewhat related to the above, is a fat tax that has been suggested to be implemented. UK researchers have shown that taxation at around 20% is the riate needed to see behaviour change. It has been suggested that taxing foods like soda to reduce obesity. Mark Bittman is blaming sugary drinks like soda on the obesity crisis. Here is the article from the Toronto Star.
       Personally, I do not agree with these ideas. I do not think drinking sodas, diet or otherwise, are good for your health. I don't think they should be available in schools. I however,  do not understand why the consumer is being required to pay extra for the product. Why are the big corporations not being taxed to produce these goods? They are the ones with the money and  are making a "dangerous" product available. I have read multiple articles stating that white sugar is a killer, if this is the case why are the producers not paying a price? Could it be related to the fact they are contributing millions to the economy through sponsoring events such as the Olympics and other world class athletic events? Here are a few examples. If I eat healthy m ost of the time and want to have a treat, why should I pay extra for following my diet of moderation and eating healthy 80% of the time?
        I do not necessarily think that the producers should pay taxes, but I think that is a better option than the consumer. If this sugar is so addictive, it makes me think that consumers will spend less on healthy options and more income on the taxed sugary foods. Why not teach the public about healthy eating and making positive choices rather than charge them? It has been shown that the public thinks eating junk is cheaper than purchasing a healthy meal, which we know is not true. If this is a belief, why not educate so consumers know the truth, know how to find and cook healthy meals, and become empowered with knowledge to pass on to future generations?