Tag: Junk food consumption

According to a 2025 analysis by Visual Capitalist, American adults derive 58% of their diet from ultra-processed foods, putting the US at the top for this metric. But defining exactly which country eats the most junk food is more complex than a single statistic suggests. This article explores the nuances of global consumption, examining various metrics and regional trends to provide a comprehensive answer.

According to a 2023 CSIRO Healthy Diet Score report, the average Australian diet scored a disappointing 55 out of 100, and this score is on a downward trend. While access to diverse, high-quality food has increased significantly over the decades, national data reveals that Australians are consuming more discretionary foods high in salt, sugar, and fat than ever before. This stark contrast raises a critical question: is Australia eating better or worse than in the past?

According to a 2025 World Population Review study, the United States leads in fast-food consumption, but determining which country has the most junk food involves looking beyond quick-service restaurants to overall dietary habits. The answer is complex, influenced by a blend of economic, cultural, and lifestyle factors that dictate global consumption.

According to a 2020 CDC report based on 2015–2018 data, over one-third of U.S. children and adolescents consumed fast food on any given day, with adolescents aged 12–19 consuming a higher percentage of their daily calories from it than younger children.