Ultra-processed food consumption rises in the Amazon region

Nutritional shifts in the Amazon, specifically in Santarém, show a growing reliance on ultra-processed foods such as sodas, packaged snacks, and boxed drinks. Researcher Many Medeiros, part of the ‘Projeto Tecendo Linhas do Cuidado Integral à Saúde na Amazônia’, notes that traditional regional cuisine is being replaced by products containing high amounts of refined sugar, glucose syrup, and corn syrup.

Several factors drive this dietary transformation. Ultra-processed goods are often cheaper due to lower taxes and multinational lobbying, making them more accessible than fresh alternatives. Additionally, their long shelf life is a critical advantage for families in the Amazon interior who may lack refrigeration or struggle with electricity costs.

Health experts warn that aggressive advertising and misleading nutritional claims contribute to the popularity of these items. This shift poses significant public health risks, including obesity and ‘hidden hunger,’ as the consumption of additives and preservatives replaces nutrient-dense traditional diets.