Impact of food variety on food consumption in Guadalajara, Mexico

Food consumption in Guadalajara has been influenced by the transformation of the traditional Mexican diet towards a food model characterised by a high availability of ultra-processed products. It was observed that the variety of the diet had an impact on caloric intake, according to the Specific Sensory Satiety Theory (SSST), which argued that individuals tended to consume more when offered a varied diet as opposed to a monotonous one. The increase in the supply of processed foods, together with their affordability and the influence of the food environment, favoured the excessive consumption of high-calorie products. The proliferation of restaurants and supermarkets and aggressive marketing increased exposure to unhealthy options, especially among children and adolescents. In turn, cultural events and local festivities promoted greater consumption of foods high in sugars and fats. Despite efforts in nutritional education, the preference for palatable foods and the accelerated pace of life reduced the intake of fruit and vegetables. As a consequence, the rates of obesity and metabolic diseases increased. To mitigate these effects, it was suggested that public policies be implemented to regulate advertising, promote access to fresh food and reinforce nutritional education in Guadalajara.