Fast foods in transition and nutrition problems in Thailand

Abstract

© 2014 by Nova Science Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved. Thailand is a country in transition due to rapid economic growth and globalization. Traditional Thai fast foods consist of rice served with various types of local main dishes, such as curries, fried meats, fresh or fried vegetables, and soups. In the right combination, traditional Thai fast foods can be complete food groups with balanced energy distribution in terms of macronutrients. Fortunately, people of all socio-economic statuses, even those with low incomes, can access traditional Thai fast foods. During the past two to three decades, however, Thailand's rapid economic growth has led to changes in the eating patterns of the Thai people. Due to aggressive marketing campaigns and advertisements, Western-style fast foods produced by multinational franchise restaurants have become popular among people of all age groups, especially children and teenagers. Multinational franchise restaurants and convenience stores offering Western-style fast foods can be found all over the country. While the total energy intake of Thais has increased only slightly, energy distribution from fat increases annually, similar to sugar consumption. Consequently, Thailand is in transition with the advent of increasing rates of overweight, obesity, and related diseases.