The consumption of ultra-processed foods in the United States remains a significant concern, with new data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revealing that over 55% of Americans’ caloric intake comes from these unhealthy options. The survey, which spans from August 2021 to 2023, highlights that the percentage is even higher among children aged 1 to 18, where a staggering 61.9% of their calories come from ultra-processed foods.
Ultra-processed foods, which are characterized by high energy content and low nutritional value, include items such as sugary beverages, snacks, and ready-to-eat meals that often contain added fats, sugars, and preservatives. These foods are designed to be inexpensive, convenient, and appealing to consumers, which contributes to their widespread consumption.
The trend concerning the intake of ultra-processed foods has seen fluctuations over the past two decades. Following a decline after 2013, consumption levels increased before experiencing a slight decrease again in recent years, according to the CDC’s history of the data collected since 1999-2000.
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has expressed a desire to reduce the prevalence of these foods in American diets, reflecting growing concern over their connection to chronic diseases such as obesity and diabetes.
Overall, while there is a slight decline in ultra-processed food consumption, the need for ongoing awareness and action regarding nutritional choices in the U.S. remains critical, particularly for younger generations.