Ultra-processed foods and beverages products entering Colombia through international trade agreements: Will they have an impact on the weight of colombians?

Author(s)

Jhon Bejarano-Roncancio ^[1] ; Edna Magaly Gamboa-Delgado ^[2] ; Dora Hilda Aya-Baquero ^[3] ; Diana C Parra

Affiliation

^[1] Universidad Nacional de Colombia. Facultad de Medicina. Departamento de Nutrición Humana - Colômbia

^[2] Fundación Cardiovascular de Colombia - Colômbia

^[3] FAO. Seguridad Alimentaria y Nutricional - Colômbia

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: Rev. chil. nutr.; v. 42, n. 4, p. 409-413, 2015-12-00.

Abstract

Ultra-processed products are characterized by high contents of sugar, saturated fat and sodium. These products are entering the Colombian market through free trade agreements. One concern related to their consumption is the impact on weight gain and comorbidities associated with overweight and obesity, as well as changes in cultural habits and food sovereignty Scientific evidence has documented that consumption of ultra processed products contributes to chronic disease, thus increasing health care costs of treatment and rehabilitation. We must implement public policies that protect and inform the consumer, increasing the access and the right to a healthy diet, while reducing consumption of ultra-processed products such as sugar sweetened beverages and snacks. Inter-sectorial strategies are needed to face the potential purchasing and consumption patterns changes, promoting the development of food systems that recognize local dynamics of production. Increase control over the type and quality of ultra-processed products that are entering the country, and promote actions, along with food and nutrition education are also needed. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 13/08129-2 - Consumption of ready-to-consume products and its association with overweight and obesity in Colombia
• Grantee: Diana Celmira Parra Perez
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral