A recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention highlights a concerning trend in dietary habits among Americans, revealing that ultra-processed foods now account for a significant portion of the diets of both children and adults. According to the CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics, approximately 62% of daily calories for kids and teens come from ultra-processed foods, while the figure stands at 53% for adults. This marks the first time the CDC has provided such estimates, raising alarms about the potential health ramifications.
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. previously identified the prevalence of ultra-processed foods as a key contributor to the rise of chronic diseases among children. Last month, efforts were initiated by the Department of Health and Human Services to formally define what constitutes ultra-processed foods, a step experts believe could pave the way for regulatory measures, including eligibility criteria for food assistance programs. The consumption of ultra-processed foods has been linked to various health issues, including diabetes, depression, and an increased risk of early mortality.
These findings reflect a broader trend observed in previous administrations, which have focused on labeling and specific ingredients rather than addressing the processing level of foods. During President Biden’s tenure, the FDA proposed introducing new labels on packaged goods to inform consumers about the content of saturated fats, added sugars, and salt.
The data collected in this report from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2021-2023) utilized the NOVA classification system, which categorizes foods based on their level of processing. The main sources of ultra-processed foods for both demographics includes sandwiches, baked goods, snacks, and sugary beverages. Interestingly, it was found that higher-income adults tend to consume fewer ultra-processed foods, although there has been a slight overall decline in intake for both groups since 2017-18.
As Marion Nestle, a nutrition professor emeritus, points out, a substantial reason for the popularity of ultra-processed foods among children lies in their convenience and aggressive marketing strategies targeting young consumers. Nestle also notes that while most ultra-processed foods contribute to negative health outcomes, some products—such as certain yogurts and whole grain items—can offer health benefits, complicating the classification of ultra-processed foods.
There are challenges in defining ultra-processed foods effectively, as not all such foods carry the same health risks. The CDC’s report serves not only as a wake-up call regarding dietary patterns but also as an opportunity for future regulatory efforts that could significantly improve public health, especially for the younger population. The hope is that by addressing these dietary issues, a healthier future generation can emerge.