(Source: https://themedicalconcierge.com)
Had you been in the United States today, you could have enjoyed a double cheeseburger for a mere 50 cents (approx. Rs.40), thanks to McDonald’s special offer. While one should appreciate Mickey D for its marketing efforts of identifying our eating habits and serving up offerings in attractive packages, the fact remains that such instances could be adding to the growing global food insecurity.
McDonald’s confidence in the success of their marketing campaign speaks to the prevailing food insecurity in the nation, where an increasing number of people opt for calorie-packed but nutritionally lacking choices, ultimately contributing to heightened health concerns. Sure, we get to pocket that grand $2 at the cost of racking up thousands in medical bills, but hey, that’s the kind of math the world is getting used to.
Now, juxtapose this trend with this fact presented recently in a scientific journal. Research has shown that fast-food consumption is associated with increased risk for physical conditions such as obesity, insulin resistance and elevated total cholesterol, while some studies have shown that it can also negatively impact mental health.
Let’s break it down: your average American willingly earmarks a noteworthy $1200 every year for their fast-food expenses. Now, when you zoom out to the national level, obesity takes center stage, bringing with it a staggering $147 billion in annual healthcare expenses. Quite the financial balancing act!
In fact, America’s ongoing battle with the bulge is a tale that never seems to end. For the past six decades, obesity rates have decided to go triple or nothing. According to nationwide surveys, a substantial 43% of Americans find themselves dealing with obesity, and an additional 10% are edging closer to morbid obesity. But it’s not just about body image issues; obesity is a medical concern that raises the risk of several health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol levels, liver troubles, sleep apnea, and even certain types of cancer.
The notable surge in US obesity rates in recent decades has ignited debates about its underlying causes. Many experts argue that environmental factors, such as societal and physical changes, may play a more pivotal role than biological factors.
Evidently, the surge in dining out, especially at “fast food” places, is a key environmental trend. Scientifically, the link between “fast food” and obesity is based on three key points:
- Dining out’s rise mirrors obesity rates
- Fast food growth outpaces other food segments
- Both self-reported visits and consumption of typical “fast food” items correlate with higher body weight
Looking at it from a consumer’s standpoint, food has undeniably become more convenient and budget-friendly, a fact highlighted by the extravagant marketing efforts of food chains. Yet, this affordability has fueled a steady surge in food demand, with predictions indicating a substantial 56% increase in global food demand between 2010 and 2050.
The strong connection between people’s reliance on fast-food establishments and their limited access to fresh food sets in motion a concerning feedback loop. Large corporate fast-food chains undermine food security by diminishing local oversight of food production. Consequently, this decreased local control over food production perpetuates the cycle of food insecurity, making it a critical issue that deserves our attention. This trajectory, coupled with population growth and the expanding middle class, is set to amplify the challenges of food security in the future and exacerbate inequality, particularly for those struggling to access proper nutrition.
Well, it’s just a little something that governments might want to, you know, mull over, especially amidst reports of the global food crisis, where currently, over 345 million people, based on data from 79 countries, are confronting severe food insecurity. (Source: World Food Programme)
The number of severely hungry people is surging, and it’s increasingly doubtful that funding will match this pace. Skyrocketing food and fuel prices only make this challenge more daunting. These unmet needs elevate the risk of hunger and malnutrition, and without sufficient resources, lives are at stake.
Now that you’ve got the inside scoop on how your go-to greasy cravings are leaving a mark on the world, are you still lovin’ it?
