Poverty on a plate: why 'cheap food' is killing the third world slowly

The burden of non-communicable diseases in the Global South is increasing, partly due to the widespread availability of cheap, unhealthy foods. To explore this issue, a study was conducted with 48 participants from urban and rural areas in South Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, and Southeast Asia. Using a 22-question survey, the study examined how income, cultural norms, and health perceptions influence food choices among low-income populations. Findings indicate a significant dietary shift. About 85% of participants reported consuming more low-cost foods such as noodles, white bread, and biscuits compared to five years ago. Although most respondents were aware of the negative health impacts, they prioritized affordability and satiety. Social factors also played a role, with 73% expressing embarrassment about their food choices due to community judgment. Only 29% had received any dietary advice from healthcare professionals. The results highlight that unhealthy eating is not simply a matter of individual choice, but is strongly shaped by poverty and structural constraints. Participants expressed a desire to improve their health but lacked access to resources such as affordable, nutritious food, financial support, and land for cultivation. Addressing non-communicable diseases requires more than awareness campaigns; it demands systemic interventions to make healthy food accessible and affordable for vulnerable populations.