A recent study has revealed a significant change in the eating habits of Seoul’s residents over the past decade, with a notable decrease in fruit consumption and an increase in meat intake. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
SEOUL, Aug. 23 (Korea Bizwire) – A recent study has revealed a significant change in the eating habits of Seoul’s residents over the past decade, with a notable decrease in fruit consumption and an increase in meat intake.
According to a report titled “Analysis of Seoul Citizens’ Dietary Habits and Policy Directions” released by the Seoul Institute on August 22, the average daily fruit consumption of Seoul residents in 2021 was 121.8 grams, a 33.2% decrease from 182.4 grams in 2012.
The analysis was based on data from Seoul citizens who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Survey conducted by the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency between 2012 and 2021.
The study also found decreases in the consumption of other plant-based foods. Grain intake dropped from 296.7 grams to 267.1 grams, while vegetable consumption fell from 278.1 grams to 244.1 grams.
Experts suggest that the persistent high prices of fruits such as apples and pears may have contributed to this dietary shift.
In contrast, the average daily meat consumption increased from 110 grams in 2012 to 149.1 grams in 2021.
This change in dietary patterns has led to a shift in the proportion of nutrients consumed. In 2012, the breakdown was 63.8% carbohydrates, 15.1% protein, and 21.1% fat. By 2021, this had changed to 57.5% carbohydrates, 16.1% protein, and 26.5% fat.
The study also revealed a growing trend of skipping breakfast. In 2012, 21.1% of Seoul residents skipped breakfast, but this figure rose to 31.6% in 2021, surpassing the national average of 28%. The trend was particularly pronounced among younger age groups, with 58.3% of those aged 19-29 skipping breakfast, followed by 39.3% of those aged 30-49, and 38.3% of those aged 12-18.
The proportion of residents consuming less than 500 grams of fruits and vegetables daily increased from 61.4% in 2012 to 71.8% in 2021.
There was also a slight increase in the percentage of individuals consuming excessive energy and fat, rising from 7.7% in 2012 to 7.9% in 2021. This metric, which indicates consumption of more than 125% of the necessary energy intake along with excessive fat intake, is a key indicator for assessing the risk of chronic diseases.
The prevalence of chronic diseases requiring lifelong management has also increased. The hypertension rate among Seoul residents rose from 23.6% in 2012 to 26.1% in 2021, while diabetes increased from 7.9% to 11.8%.
The report concludes that the decrease in plant-based food consumption, coupled with an increase in animal-based foods and excessive fat intake, appears to be contributing to the rise in diet-related chronic diseases.
The researchers recommend strengthening policy initiatives to promote healthier dietary environments, including encouraging increased fruit and vegetable consumption and reducing sugar intake.
Ashley Song (ashley@koreabizwire.com)
