2024-07-21 09:37:37
For many years, junk food has established itself as an essential component of modern diets in many countries. This term, often used to designate foods high in calories, low in essential nutrients and high in fats, sugars and salts, has grown in popularity. According to a study by the World Health Organization (WHO)around 2.8 million people die every year from complications related to obesity or being overweight, pathologies often associated with overeating this type of food.
Impact on health: alarming figures
Regular consumption of junk food is directly correlated with various chronic diseases. Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and certain types of cancer are often linked to unhealthy diets. A recent study found that it was more than 20% of heart diseases attributable to an inadequate diet, highlighting the high human and economic costs associated with these dietary habits.
Main points :
- Increase in junk food related illnesses.
- Significant economic costs to health systems.
Economic and social issues
In addition to the health consequences, junk food generates major economic issues. The agri-food industries, which market these products, play a dual role. On the one hand, they contribute significantly to the economy through job creation and tax revenue. On the other hand, they are often criticized for their marketing methods that particularly target vulnerable populations, including children and low-income people.
Junk food marketing: a sharp strategy
Aggressive marketing and the advertising strategies of the agri-food industry giants are powerful vectors that influence consumers’ food choices. Advertising campaigns, often using mascots or celebrities, effectively target young people, increasing their choice of low-nutrition products.
Main points :
- The significant impact of marketing on eating habits.
- Children’s increased vulnerability to these strategies.
Control strategies and regulation
Faced with these challenges, many governments and international organizations have implemented strategies to counter the spread of food waste. The most common measures include the taxation of sugary products, clear nutritional labeling and limited advertising aimed at children. For example, Mexico and Hungary introduced taxes on sugary drinks, which led to a measurable reduction in their consumption.
Main points :
- Various regulatory measures to reduce consumption.
- Positive effects observed in some countries after the implementation of taxes.
Future perspectives and activities
Despite regulatory efforts, the fight against junk food requires a more holistic approach that includes nutritional education from an early age. Engagement with stakeholders, including educators, health professionals, businesses and consumers, is critical to lasting change. Healthier diets not only benefit individual health but also contribute to environmental sustainability.
Although World Food Waste Day on July 21, 2024 is a moment of awareness, it must also be a catalyst for concrete actions. Local, national and international initiatives need to come together to create an environment that supports healthy food choices that are accessible to all.
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