Researchers: Shosh Shahrabani¹

Background: The Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) population is characterized by high rates of diabetes. In 2022, a tax on sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) was introduced and later repealed in 2023. However, the impact of these policy changes, alongside the food labeling reform, has not yet been examined in this population.

Objectives: The study aimed to characterize the frequency of SSB consumption, the use of front-of-package labeling, and the factors influencing changes in food purchasing behaviors following these policy changes.

Method: A telephone survey was conducted among 700 Haredi participants aged 25 and older. The survey was based on the Health Belief Model and included socio-demographic variables, use of labeling, frequency of SSB consumption, and willingness to adopt dietary changes.

Findings: Following the implementation of the tax, 34.4% reported reducing SSB consumption, while 65.7% reported no change. After the tax repeal, 81% reported no change, and 10.8% reported increased consumption. Higher SSB consumption was observed among men, younger individuals, and those with lower socioeconomic status, and was associated with lower perceived health risk and higher perceived healthfulness of SSBs. Additionally, five years after the labeling reform, 67.9% reported shifting toward purchasing healthier foods. Frequent use of labels was associated with positive attitudes toward the reform, recognition of the importance of healthy nutrition, and perceived benefits of labeling.

Conclusions: The findings suggest that the labeling reform had a sustained impact, and that combining higher taxation with product labeling may be effective. However, complementary measures are needed to strengthen motivation for healthy eating within the Haredi population.

Recommendations: It is recommended to implement a substantial sugar tax alongside culturally tailored educational campaigns in collaboration with community leaders.

Research end date: 05/2026