WATCH YOUR WEENY –
August 7, 2025 – Americans on average get more than half of their calories from ultra-processed foods. Young people, aged 1 to 18 consumed even higher amounts at 61.9%, compared to adults aged 19 and older at 53%. No significant differences were found between males and females, but low-income adults consumed more ultra-processed foods than those with higher incomes.
The report described ultra-processed foods as those that tend to be energy-dense, low in fiber and contain little or no whole foods, while also being high in salt, sweeteners and unhealthy fats.
Some of the top sources of calories from ultra-processed foods among youth and adults included:
- Sandwiches, including burgers
- Sweet bakery products
- Savory snacks
- Sweetened beverages
For young people, pizza also ranked among the ultra-processed food sources. And for adults, breads, rolls and tortillas made the list.
