Australians are projected to consume less fruit while increasing their intake of junk food by 2030, according to new findings from the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO). This research indicates that current Australian diets already fail to meet critical national health guidelines and are expected to further decline over the next five years.
A study published in the Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health reveals an anticipated 18 per cent surge in the consumption of discretionary foods—also known as junk foods—by 2030. These foods comprise highly processed items like sweets, takeaway meals, pastries, and sugary beverages. In stark contrast, fruit consumption is expected to decline by nearly 10 per cent in the same period.
While vegetable intake is not predicted to decrease, it remains significantly below the recommended levels and is unlikely to improve in the upcoming five years. This alarming trend is based on the analysis of dietary data gathered from over 275,000 Australian adults across a nine-year period, facilitated by a comprehensive 38-question survey assessing their daily eating habits.
The findings suggest a clear trajectory for Australian diets if current behavioural patterns persist. Notably, the only positive dietary change was observed among younger adults aged 18 to 30, who, despite some improvements, still consumed excessive amounts of unhealthy foods.
Dr Gilly Hendrie, a Senior Research Scientist at CSIRO, highlighted the importance of addressing these concerning trends before they escalate into major public health issues. She emphasised that the survey serves as an early warning for Australians to strive towards achieving essential nutrition benchmarks: two servings of fruit and five servings of vegetables daily. Additionally, the public is encouraged to ensure that junk foods constitute less than 20 per cent of their overall diet, in line with Australia’s National Preventive Health Strategy (2021-2030).
Dr Hendrie stated, "We have five years to get back on track with our diets and reverse these concerning trends." The time for action is now, as Australians face a critical need to improve their dietary habits to align with health recommendations and foster better overall health outcomes in the future.