Junk food

Junk food is a derogatory term, used for any food that is perceived to be unhealthy and has low or poor nutritional value. Examples of junk food may include, but are not limited to hamburgers, candy, soda and salty foods like potato chips and french fries. A diet rich in junk food is not conducive to maintaining a "balanced diet", as suggested by various government and non-profit health organizations. The term has been used by many different groups over the years including opponents of fast food industries and environmentalists.

Junk food nevertheless remains popular because it is relatively cheap to manufacture, is convenient to consume, and has a lot of flavor because of its typically high fat, sodium, or sugar content. Its nutritional value is typically very high in empty calories. Junk food also may contain numerous food additives, which are used to enhance flavor, adjust texture, alter color, and prevent spoilage. For this reason many junk foods are also convenient in that they keep for long periods of time.

See also

• Empty calorie
• Fast food
• Super Size Me
• Jamie's School Dinners