[glitchc]

Whole (or raw) foods are tax-exempt in the US. This is NY, other states are roughly on par:

https://www.tax.ny.gov/pubs_and_bulls/tg_bulletins/st/listin...

There are about 10 that still charge taxes on groceries, but are considering phasing them out.

Shelter is always tax exempt. There is no tax on rent. Mortgages, if anything, come with a tax rebate, as amounts paid can be claimed against collected income taxes.

[hollerith]

You did not read your own linked page: food that are already heated-up and ready to eat are taxable, but most foods are not. Whether it is a whole food or a processed food products with many ingredients does not matter. Also, NY taxes soft drinks and other unhealthy foods (but most states do not).

Also, you are wrong when you wrote, "Given that the lower and middle classes pay a disproportionate amount of income tax".

In fact, most Americans who earn under about $40,000 a year pay no federal income tax. I believe the vehicle that effects this outcome is mainly the earned income tax credit.

[gymbeaux]

Things poor people need that are still taxed:

- Clothes - Shoes - Plumber/Electrician/Handyman - School supplies (though some states have tax holidays) - Gas/public transit - Car maintenance - Utility bills