Australians are consuming less of all major food groups with vegetables, fruit, and milk products leading the decline, according to the latest report from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). The report revealed that approximately 14.8 million tonnes of food and non-alcoholic beverages were sold across Australia in 2022-23, reflecting a 1.9% decrease from the previous year’s figures.
The ABS report, which measures “apparent consumption” – the amount of food and non-alcoholic beverages purchased from supermarkets and smaller food retail outlets – excluded food purchased from fast food outlets, cafes, restaurants, or catering services.
New data from the ABS uncovered a surprising twist in the dietary trends of Australians. It was revealed that amid rising prices at the checkout, Aussies bought about 3.9% less food in 2022-23 compared to the previous year, resulting in a drop of 63 grams or 337 kilojoules per day. Notably, the consumption of vegetables saw the largest dip at 14 grams per person per day, followed by fruit at 12 grams per person per day. Additionally, the consumption of milk products and non-alcoholic beverages also experienced declines of 11 grams and 9 grams, respectively.
While fruit, vegetables, and milk consumption declined, Australians appeared to be gravitating towards convenience foods, with an increase in the consumption of chips, chocolate, and pizzas. This shift in consumption patterns raises concerns about the overall nutritional intake and dietary habits of the population.
The data reflects a change in eating and drinking habits, shedding light on the impact of rising checkout prices on grocery items. The significant reduction in the consumption of fruits, vegetables, and milk products raises concerns about the nutritional adequacy of Australians’ diets. As the nation grapples with these shifting dietary trends, it becomes essential to address the underlying factors contributing to the decreased consumption of essential food groups and explore measures to promote healthier dietary choices amidst economic challenges.
