| Resumen: |
This report provides an up-to-date comprehensive perspective on global shifts in sales of ultra-processed food and drink products over the past decade in 13 Latin American countries, while exploring the connection between the surge in market share and the epidemic of obesity in Latin America. It examines trends in sales of ultra-processed products, their distribution in supermarkets and retail outlets, and market concentration. The report also examines how sales are associated with socioeconomic drivers including patterns of urbanization, income growth and market deregulation. While sales volumes remain higher in high-income countries, the rate of growth was faster in lower-income countries during the period 2000 to 2013.
Consistent with previous findings, sales of ultra-processed products are associated with weight gain and obesity in Latin America. The solutions to this epidemic of unhealthy diets can be found in sound public policies and this monograph provides clear guidance on the way forward. |
