SaralnamaObesity has become the leading form of malnutrition among children and teenagers worldwide, reports UNICEF. Nearly one in 10 children aged 5-19 is obese. Ultra-processed foods are replacing fruits, vegetables, and proteins in diets. From 2000 to 2022, overweight numbers in this age group more than doubled to 391 million. Obesity rates rose from 3% to 8%. UNICEF believes 2025 marks a turning point, with youth obesity (9.4%) surpassing underweight (9.2%). The agency blames unethical business practices and aggressive marketing of junk foods. Children face bombardment by unhealthy food ads, especially in schools. UNICEF urges governments to take action through advertising restrictions, taxes on unhealthy foods, and policies promoting fresh produce. Until now, obesity levels were higher in developed nations. Next, the gap between rich and poor countries is narrowing, with some nations facing both undernutrition and rising obesity. (Updated 10 Sep 2025, 14:07 IST; source: link)
Key Points
- Obesity has become the leading form of malnutrition among children and teenagers worldwide, reports UNICEF
- Nearly one in 10 children aged 5-19 is obese
- Ultra-processed foods are replacing fruits, vegetables, and proteins in diets