Background and Relevance of Gisela Ayala
Gisela Ayala, the director of the Mexican Federación de Diabetes (Mexican Diabetes Federation), has emphasized the importance of combining tax measures on sugar-free beverages with comprehensive education campaigns to effectively address the rising prevalence of diabetes and related conditions in Mexico.
IEPS on Sugar-Free Drinks: Insufficient for Prevention Alone
Starting in 2026, Mexico will impose a 1.5 pesos per liter tax on non-caloric beverages, including light and zero-sugar versions as well as sports drinks and electrolyte beverages, under the Impuesto Especial sobre Producción y Servicios (IEPS).
Ayala believes that while this tax aims to limit caloric intake and help manage conditions like diabetes and obesity, it is insufficient on its own. She argues that any measure targeting public health should be complemented by education initiatives to ensure people know how to replace high-sugar options with healthier alternatives.
Diabetes in Mexico
Ayala highlighted that approximately 14 million Mexicans live with some form of diabetes, making her organization’s mission crucial for the well-being of a significant portion of the population.
Role of Low-Calorie Sweeteners
She pointed out that low-calorie and calorie-free sweeteners have been an effective means for individuals with diabetes to reduce their sugar intake and maintain stable blood glucose levels.
According to Ayala, as of 2017, 96% of diabetics in Mexico consumed products with low-calorie sweeteners.
Uncertain Impact of New IEPS
Despite the benefits of low-calorie sweeteners, Ayala mentioned that her organization has yet to study the potential impact of the new IEPS on diabetics who rely on these alternatives.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the Mexican Diabetes Federation’s stance on the new IEPS? The Federación Mexicana de Diabetes believes that while the tax on sugar-free beverages is a step in the right direction, it should be accompanied by education campaigns to ensure people understand how to replace high-sugar options with healthier alternatives.
- Why are low-calorie sweeteners important for diabetics? Low-calorie and calorie-free sweeteners help diabetics reduce their sugar intake, maintain stable blood glucose levels, and manage their condition more effectively.
- What concerns does the Federación Mexicana de Diabetes have regarding the new IEPS? The organization is concerned that the tax might limit consumers’ options for reducing caloric intake and managing conditions like diabetes, without proper education on available alternatives.
- How prevalent is diabetes in Mexico? Approximately 14 million Mexicans live with some form of diabetes, making the work of organizations like the Federación Mexicana de Diabetes essential for public health.
