Consumption of ultra-processed food in the United States has decreased somewhat, yet remains above 50% in the everyday diet
Ultra-Processed Foods Dominate American Diet, New Data Shows Modest Decline
Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are a significant part of the American diet, particularly for children, according to recent data. In a study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it was found that children aged 1-18 consumed around 61.9% of their daily calories from UPFs, while adults consumed approximately 53% of their calories from these foods [1][3][4].
This high intake of UPFs is concerning because these foods are often high in saturated fat, added sugars, sodium, and calories, while lacking essential fiber and micronutrients [1][2]. Consuming such foods contributes to poor overall nutrition and has been linked with increased risks of obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and some cancers, making this dietary pattern a major public health concern [1][2].
The widespread consumption of UPFs is partly driven by their inexpensiveness, convenience, and heavy marketing, particularly towards children and low-income families [1]. This shift towards UPFs has disrupted traditional diets in the U.S., lowering overall diet quality and conflicting with guidelines such as those from the American Heart Association, which recommend limiting UPF intake, especially those high in unhealthy fats, sugars, and salt [1].
Despite the high consumption of UPFs, recent data shows a modest decline in their consumption levels over the last few years. This decline is evident when comparing the values seen in 2021–2023 with higher values from previous years, such as 65.6% for youth in 2017–2018 and over 55% for adults around 2013–2018 [3][4]. This decrease may reflect growing awareness and some dietary changes aligned with public health recommendations [3][4].
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has expressed a desire to reduce the prevalence of UPFs in the American diet. The CDC spokesperson, Brian Tsai, revealed that the study on UPF consumption in the U.S. was conducted since 1999-2000. However, the study was interrupted during the pandemic. The current survey on UPF consumption in the U.S. was last conducted in 2017-2018.
In summary, ultra-processed foods dominate the American diet, particularly among children, greatly contributing to obesity and diabetes risk. However, recent data shows a modest decline in consumption levels, which may reflect growing awareness and some dietary changes aligned with public health recommendations. For more information on the topic of curtailing the prevalence of UPFs in the American diet, recent coverage can be found on NPR.
- The high consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) is concerning due to their link with chronic diseases like obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers, which are related to poor nutrition and health-and-wellness.
- To address this public health issue, health policy makers might focus on education about the detrimental effects of UPFs on fitness-and-exercise routines and nutrition.
- With the modest decline in UPF consumption shown in recent data, opportunities arise for advocating evidence-based nutritional guidelines that promote healthier alternatives to ultra-processed foods, improving overall health and wellness for all.
