New Zealand's failure to curb ultra-processed foods risks public health

New Zealand has taken little action to reduce the consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) over the past five years. While countries like Australia, Canada, and the UK have introduced measures such as warning labels and sugar taxes, New Zealand relies only on general dietary guidelines and voluntary industry schemes. Meanwhile, UPFs—ranging from soft drinks to ready meals—now make up a significant portion of the country's food supply.

UPFs are industrial formulations made from cheap ingredients like refined crops, meat scraps, and additives. These products often contain high levels of sugar, salt, fat, and artificial substances but little to no whole food. Studies link diets heavy in UPFs to serious health risks, including chronic diseases and premature death.

About 70% of packaged foods in New Zealand supermarkets fall into this category. The share of UPFs in the country's total food and drink imports has more than doubled, rising from 9% in 1990 to 22% in 2023. Yet, without a national nutrition survey since 2008, exact consumption levels remain unclear. If trends mirror those in Australia or Canada, UPFs may account for roughly half of New Zealanders' daily energy intake. Beyond health concerns, UPFs also harm the environment. Their production consumes large amounts of water and energy, while excessive plastic packaging adds to waste. Despite these issues, the government has not implemented binding policies. Instead, it supports voluntary initiatives like the Healthy Food Environment Policy, leaving regulation to industry self-governance.

Unhealthy diets and excess weight, both tied to high UPF consumption, contribute to 18% of premature deaths and disabilities in New Zealand. Without stricter measures, the country's reliance on these products is likely to persist. Other nations have already taken steps to curb UPF intake, but New Zealand's approach remains largely unchanged.