Local Nutrition Experts Weigh in on “Junk Food Diet” Study

It’s nutrition news that might shock you – but comes as no surprise to food experts in the region.

A new study shows that the American diet is comprised primarily of junk food…almost 60 percent of it.

It turns out it’s because they’ve known for awhile we’re letting highly-processed bread products, sugary drinks and fatty snacks push the good foods out of our daily intake.

The good news is, there are resources out there in the F-M area that can help.

It’s a chilly day to be posting signs outside in downtown Fargo.

But for Kaye Kirsch, this is worth the extra effort, particularly today.

“I think it aligns really well with our mission to bring you better access to natural, organic and local food,” said Kirsch, of the study.

Kirsch is opening up the city’s first food co-op just as nutrition scientists announce more of us are eating more junk food than real food…all the while believing we’re doing better.

“Mac and cheese. Frozen pizza. Chicken nuggets. Parents think, it’s good. It’s protein,” said Michelle Strang of the NDSU Nutrition Council.

It’s not that easy.

Processed foods are also replacing whole foods like grains and veggies because people don’t know basic cooking, let alone basic nutrition.

You probably wouldn’t think a tiny little item like this would edge out the good stuff.

But it comes down to calories: at more than 260 for this, you’d have to eat more than four average sized apples to replace what you’re getting here, from sugar and fat.

“Most people think that they’re eating much healthier than they are, actually,” said Strang.

Co-op folks are only halfway to their goal to open up late this year.

But they’re hoping their numbers add up before everyone else’s junk food calories do.

“We’re excited to bring you these whole food, natural options, all in one convenient place,” said Kirsch.

The co-op folks are offering cooking classes as well as natural foods at the new shop.

They’re just one of several natural, whole-food specialty markets that have come to the Red River region in the past few years.