Bangkok, May 4, 2025 – A recent survey by Thailand’s Department of Health Service Support (DHS) has uncovered a troubling trend: the majority of Thais are consuming dangerously unhealthy foods high in salt, fat, and sugar, with habits bordering on addiction, according to DHS chief Dr. Somsak Akksilp. The findings, announced on Sunday, highlight a growing public health crisis as the nation grapples with rising rates of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
The DHS survey points to a widespread preference for ultra-processed foods, such as instant noodles, sugary drinks, salty snacks, and sweet desserts, which dominate modern Thai diets. These foods, engineered to be hyper-palatable, trigger cravings and compulsive eating behaviors, with many Thais struggling to cut back. “The addiction to overly salty, fatty, and sweet foods is alarming,” Dr. Akksilp said. “This is not just a matter of taste—it’s a serious threat to our nation’s health.”
Thailand’s dietary shift mirrors a global “nutrition transition,” where traditional meals rich in vegetables, fish, and healthy fruits are being replaced by processed, nutrient-poor alternatives. Urbanization, the spread of convenience stores, and aggressive marketing by food companies have fueled the trend. The survey notes that young people and urban residents are particularly vulnerable, with adolescents frequently consuming junk foods like chips, sweets, and sodas while socializing or traveling.
The health consequences are stark. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) account for 74% of deaths in Thailand, with cardiovascular diseases, cancers, and diabetes among the leading causes. Thais consume an average of 3,636 mg of sodium daily—nearly double the World Health Organization’s recommended 2,000 mg—and 24.3 teaspoons of sugar, four times the advised limit. These excesses contribute to a surge in obesity and hypertension, particularly in Bangkok and other urban centers.
Government efforts to curb unhealthy eating include a tax on sugary beverages, mandatory nutrition labeling, and restrictions on junk food ads targeting children. However, experts warn that more serious measures are needed. “Labeling helps, but we need stronger enforcement and public education to shift behaviors,” said Dr. Nalinee Chuangchot, a public health nutritionist. School-based bans on sugary drinks and sodium-heavy snacks are in place, but violations remain common.
The DHS is calling for urgent action, including expanded public awareness campaigns and stricter regulations on food marketing. “We must empower Thais to make healthier choices,” Dr. Akksilp urged. “Our future depends on it.”
