Australians’ diet to drop by 2030

AUSTRALIAN eating habits are on a downward spira,l according to new research study from the CSIRO.

The Australian and New Zealand Journal of Public Health study analysing nine years of data from over 275,000 Australian adults to forecast future dietary trends against national targets.It predicted the consumption of ultra processed foods and sugary drinks is certain to surge, with an 18 per cent rise estimated by 2030.

Fruit consumption is predicted to drop by nearly 10 per cent, while vegetable intake remains stagnant and well below the five fruit and vegetables a day target.

The research suggested young adults are the only group showing positive trends, while concerningly a 14.7 decline in fruit consumption is estimated in people over 71 years old by 2030.

Senior CSIRO research scientist Dr Gilly Hendrie said the research is a key way of preventative health planning.

“Predictive modelling gives us a powerful early warning system,” Dr Hendrie said.

“Rather than waiting to see the impact of poor dietary habits, we can now identify concerning trends and intervene before they become major public health issues.”

Australia’s National Preventative Health Strategy (2021-2030) outlines diet as a key risk factor for chronic disease, as well as accounting for significant healthcare costs and reduced quality of life.

Dr Hendrie said improving access to nutrition will be key in supporting long-term public health.

“The gap between our current dietary trajectory and our national health targets is widening.

“We have five years to get back on track with our diets and reverse these concerning trends.”