Is “healthy” food more expensive than “unhealthy” food?
The belief that healthy food is pricier than unhealthy food is commonly cited, with this perceived cost difference often seen as a major barrier to encouraging healthier eating habits. However, defining and comparing "healthy" versus "unhealthy" food isn't straightforward and can complicate this question (1, 2, 3).
For example, when comparing foods by their energy density (price per calorie), vegetables can seem significantly more expensive than calorie-dense sodas or fatty, fried foods. This comparison might skew perceptions and reinforce the idea that healthier options cost more.
Additionally, many nutritionists, dietitians, and public health experts are moving away from labeling foods as strictly “healthy” or “unhealthy.” Instead, they emphasize overall dietary patterns and the context within which these foods are consumed.
Recent data reveals an alarming trend: 96% of Australians are not meeting the recommended daily servings of 2 fruits and 5 vegetables. Furthermore, 67% of women and 76% of men do not consume the recommended servings of whole grains (4). Diet remains a leading cause of preventable disease in Australia, indicating the ongoing battle to promote healthier eating habits.
Given this context, we return to the central question: Is healthy food truly more expensive than unhealthy food?
Recent Australian research offers insight into this question by comparing actual eating habits (unhealthy diets) with the dietary patterns suggested by the Australian Dietary Guidelines (healthy diets).
As a reminder, for adults aged 19-50, the Australian Dietary Guidelines recommend the following daily intake (5):
5+ serves of vegetables/legumes/beans
2 serves of fruit
6 serves of whole grains/high-fiber cereal foods
2.5+ serves of protein (lean meat, tofu, poultry, eggs, legumes, beans)
2.5 serves of reduced-fat dairy
In reality, Australians spend approximately 58% of their food budget on discretionary food choices that should be limited, such as alcohol, sugary drinks, and takeaway foods (6). By adhering to the Australian Dietary Guidelines, the findings suggest a family of four (two adults and two children) could enjoy savings of around 12-15% on their food budget. This could go a long way over the course of the year.
These findings provide a hopeful perspective and a basis for re-educating people on the misconception that healthy food is more expensive. Just compare the cost of a shopping list filled with seasonal fresh produce that was purchased on special, rice, oats, lentils, small amounts of meat, chickpeas, and dairy products with the cost of takeout meals, processed foods, alcohol, and biscuits. It's pretty obvious which one is going to cost you more.
Whilst this obviously doesn’t solve Australia’s healthy eating or obesity crisis - people's food choices are influenced by so many variables such as cooking knowledge, convenience, taste preferences and social factors - this research gives us good evidence that the belief that healthy food is more expensive is most likely a misconception.
In conclusion, the idea that healthy food is more expensive than unhealthy food is not necessarily true. With informed choices it is possible to eat healthily without breaking the bank.
Hopefully this positive message can help encourage some healthier eating habits.
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