junk food

[/dʒʌŋk fuːd/]
nounpl: junk foods
comida lixo
1. food that is high in calories, fat, sugar, or salt but low in nutritional value; processed or fast food consumed for convenience rather than health
Eating too much junk food can lead to obesity and health problems.
Comer muita comida lixo pode levar à obesidade e problemas de saúde.
2. snack foods or meals that are considered unhealthy despite being tasty and convenient
The teenagers grabbed junk food from the vending machine.
Os adolescentes pegaram comida lixo na máquina de venda automática.
The term 'junk food' reflects growing health consciousness in both Brazil and the USA. In Brazil, concern about unhealthy eating habits has increased with urbanization and the proliferation of fast food chains. The phrase is commonly used in health campaigns and among nutritionists in both countries to discourage consumption of calorie-dense, nutrient-poor foods. The term carries a negative connotation and is often used in discussions about childhood obesity and public health initiatives.
NYC Slang
garbage food
Synonyms / Sinônimos
fast foodprocessed foodunhealthy foodconvenience foodsnack food
Antonyms / Antônimos
healthy foodwhole foodnutritious foodorganic foodwholesome food

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
comida lixo
Most common translation, literal and widely understood
General Brazilian
fast food
Often used in Brazilian Portuguese, especially in urban areas
São Paulo
comida lixo / fast food
Both terms used interchangeably in metropolitan areas
Portugal
comida lixo / fast food
Similar usage to Brazil, with 'comida lixo' being the literal translation

Related Words

fast foodprocessed foodcalorienutritionobesitysnack

Related Idioms & Phrases

living on junk food
addicted to junk food
junk food junkie
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