Denmark Repeals World's First Fat Tax

New York Times:  'Fat Tax' in Denmark Is Repealed After Criticism:

Citing a harmful effect on businesses and consumer buying power, lawmakers in Denmark have repealed the so-called fat tax, which was charged on foods high in saturated fats, after just one year. ... “Now we have to try to improve public health by other means.”

The Danish decisions to end taxes aimed at curbing obesity point up the challenges that politicians face in grappling with what has become a major public health issue. The moves were announced just a few days after voters in California defeated ballot measures that would have imposed taxes on sugary drinks.

• Freakonomics, Fans of a “Fat Tax” Will Be Saddened by the News From Denmark
• NPR, Danes May Bring Back Butter as Government Rolls Back Fat Tax
• Washington Post, Denmark Scraps World's First Fat Tax

(Hat Tip: Mike Talbert.)