Junk Food Consumption Soars In the UK

Junk food remains to be a favorite among Brits, and consumption of chips, pizza, and ready-to-eat meals have soared in the past years. A study of the National Food Survey revealed that traditional food items in the country are losing appeal, while junk food continue to be popular.

Independent reported that despite efforts of people in the UK to seek healthier alternatives when it comes to eating, they still eat a lot of junk food on a weekly basis. The study of the National Food Survey involved 150,000 households from 1974 to 2000, as well as food data from 2000 to 2014. Results showed how eating habits shifted in the region over the years.

In addition, The Health Site noted that Brits are also choosing to eat healthy food items like fruits, low-calorie sodas and skimmed milk. It also highlighted that they are not anymore very fond of eating fish and chips like before.

According to UK's environment secretary Liz Truss, the study has revealed the "food revolution" for the past 40 years. "The internet has brought quality produce to our doorsteps at the click of a button, pop-up restaurants are showcasing the latest trends and exciting global cuisines are now as common as fish and chips," she told FoodBev.

Another notable finding is the 40 percent reduction in their consumption of bread. Independent said that Britons consume only 15 slices a week compared to 25 in the past. Spreads like margarine and butter also suffered a declining popularity along with coffee and tea.

However, UK Tea and Infusions Association chairman Bill Gorman has expressed his doubt on the results of the study, Mashable said. He claimed that tea consumption has not really decreased for the past years.

"In 1974, Brits were actually drinking 28 cups of tea per week, which equated to four cups per day," he said. "In 1974, tea accounted for 50% of the nation's daily intake of fluids. That figure has since dropped to 37% of the national intake of fluid, so it is still a significant amount," Gorman added.