A new CDC report reveals that ultra-processed foods now account for more than 55 % of the average American’s daily caloric intake—especially concerning for youth, whose diets rely on these products even more.
Kids Consume Even More—Nearly 62%
According to data collected from August 2021 to August 2023, Americans aged one and older are getting 55% of their calories from ultra-processed foods, while children and teens reach nearly 62%—compared to about 53% for adults.
What Counts as 'Ultra-Processed'?
The latest findings use the widely accepted NOVA classification system, categorising foods based on processing, especially those with additives or industrial ingredients. Think sugary drinks, frozen pizzas, savory snacks, and packaged bakery items.
Health Risks Keep Rising
Evidence links these highly processed foods to a range of health issues—from obesity and type 2 diabetes to cardiovascular disease and cancer. One meta-analysis found that even a small uptick in ultra-processed food intake is associated with higher risks for multiple health outcomes.
Is Consumption Finally Declining? Barely.
The CDC noted a slight drop since 2017–2018: youth intake fell from 65.6 % to 61.9 %, and adults from 55.8 % to 53.0 %. It’s progress—but a slow climb down from an already high peak.
Policy Pressure Mounts
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has called ultra-processed foods “mass poisoning” and made reducing their presence in U.S. diets a top priority under his Make America Healthy Again agenda. Expect updates to Dietary Guidelines and further proposals targeting the ultra-processed category.
The Bottom Line
Ultra-processed foods dominate more than half of U.S. calories—particularly among children. While intake has dropped modestly in recent years, the overwhelming share of the average American diet still comes from highly processed sources. Public health experts urge more focus on whole, minimally processed foods to counter chronic disease trends.
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