Imagine if junk food was a crime and we had to define it in court! Well, that’s exactly what food policies are trying to do. In a recent analysis, researchers dove into three decades of U.S. food policies to understand how they determine which foods should be subject to health-related policies, like taxes. It turns out that the definition of ‘junk food’ is more intricate than just greasy fries and sugary drinks. The researchers found that a combination of factors including food category, processing methods, and nutrient content help policymakers in deciding which foods fall under the ‘junk food’ umbrella. This reminds me of how a magician determines which tricks to include in their show based on complexity, audience impact, and technique! By identifying the characteristics that classify certain foods as ‘junk,’ policymakers can develop more effective strategies for promoting healthier choices and combatting issues like obesity and chronic disease. If you’re intrigued by the science behind this analysis, I encourage you to explore the underlying research and uncover how our food policies are shaping our health!
How is ‘junk food’ defined for food policies like taxes? A combination of food category, processing, and nutrients can determine which foods should be subject to health-related policies, according to a new analysis examining three decades of U.S. food policies by researchers.
Dr. David Lowemann, M.Sc, Ph.D., is a co-founder of the Institute for the Future of Human Potential, where he leads the charge in pioneering Self-Enhancement Science for the Success of Society. With a keen interest in exploring the untapped potential of the human mind, Dr. Lowemann has dedicated his career to pushing the boundaries of human capabilities and understanding.
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