junk food

Cutting back on ultra-processed food in your child's diet doesn't have to be a huge lift. Learn shortcuts and smart swaps, like giving them nuts for a snack instead of chips. Even if they're salted, the higher protein and healthy fats in nuts are an added benefit.

How to cut back on junk food in your child's diet — and when not to worry

Maria Godoy

Kids today live in an ultra-processed world: Nearly 70% of what they eat is packaged, processed and probably not great for them. Here are ways to cut back, without cooking every meal from scratch.

As soda consumption has dropped in the West, companies are making an effort to woo new customers in other places. This Coke bottle ad is in Mozambique.

NPR Health

Junk food companies say they're trying to do good. A new book raises doubts

Pien Huang

As the marketing of soda and fast food ramps up around the world, the companies involved forge partnerships to help the poor. The new book "Junk Food Politics" casts a critical eye at their efforts.

<em>Hooked</em> author Michael Moss says processed food companies appeal to our childhood nostalgia: "What we eat is all about memory."

Health News Florida

Cheap, Legal And Everywhere: How Food Companies Get Us 'Hooked' On Junk

Dave Davies

Reporter Michael Moss says processed foods can be as alluring in some ways as cocaine or cigarettes. His new book explains how companies keep us snacking by appealing to nostalgia and brain chemistry.

A person buys soda at a convenience store in San Luis Potosi, Mexico, on April 13. The country has high levels of obesity and medical conditions that health authorities warn are related to a diet high in soda and processed foods.

Health News Florida

'We Had To Take Action': States In Mexico Move To Ban Junk Food Sales To Minors

James Fredrick

"The damage of this kind of diet is even more visible because of the pandemic," says a Oaxaca legislator who spearheaded a law against the sale of junk food and soda to minors. The idea is spreading.

It's well-known that junk food ads on TV can strongly influence what kids want to eat. A study finds social media influencers can have the same effect on kids --but not when it comes to healthy foods.

NPR Health

Social Media May Sway Kids To Eat More Cookies — And More Calories

Patti Neighmond

It's well-known that junk food ads on TV can strongly influence what kids want to eat. A study finds social media influencers can have the same effect on kids, but not when it comes to healthy foods.