From fast food classics to sugary snacks, junk food has cemented its place in American culture. Despite health warnings, these treats continue to dominate pantries and drive-thru orders. Here’s a look at the top 15 junk foods that Americans just won’t quit.
1. Pop-Tarts
Since the 1960s, Pop-Tarts have been a convenient breakfast option, especially for those in a rush. However, these pastries are a sugar bomb, with two Frosted Strawberry Pop-Tarts containing 400 calories and 76 grams of carbs. Their refined flour and unhealthy oils make them a terrible way to start your day.
2. Instant Ramen
Instant ramen is cheap, tasty, and comforting, but it’s a sodium minefield. A single serving can contain over half your daily recommended salt intake, with some brands like Nissan Top Ramen offering 1,620 milligrams of sodium. Regular consumption increases risks of high blood pressure and heart disease.
3. Cinnabon Caramel Pecanbon
Cinnabon’s Caramel Pecanbon is a tempting indulgence with 1,080 calories and 146 grams of carbs. Its sugar content alone surpasses the daily recommended limit, making it one of the most calorie-laden treats on the market.
4. Arby’s Curly Fries
Curly fries might be a favorite side, but Arby’s version delivers 650 calories and 35 grams of fat in a large serving. The deep-frying process adds unhealthy trans fats, linked to inflammation and heart disease.
Store-Bought Cake
A quick stop at the bakery aisle could land you with cakes packed with artificial ingredients and sugars. Take Costco’s David’s Cookies Mile High Peanut Butter Cake, for instance—it boasts 820 calories and 71 grams of sugar per slice. These store-bought options are more sugar than substance.
6. Burger King Oreo Shake
This shake might sound like the perfect treat, but it contains a jaw-dropping 730 calories and 121 grams of carbs. Its high fructose corn syrup content contributes to weight gain and metabolic diseases.
7. Popeyes Chicken Tenders
Popeyes Handcrafted Tenders might seem like a lighter option, but each serving contains trans fats—ingredients known to increase the risk of obesity and heart disease. Adding a side and soda only amplifies the unhealthy effects.
8. Potato Chips
We all knew this would be on the list. Savory and crunchy, potato chips are a beloved snack, yet they offer little in terms of nutrition. Ruffles Cheddar & Sour Cream Chips, for instance, contain artificial dyes like Yellow 6, considered a possible carcinogen.
9. Outback Bloomin’ Onion
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Although designed to be shared, Outback’s Bloomin’ Onion packs 1,954 calories and 154 grams of fat. The dish also contains over 7 grams of trans fats, far exceeding safe consumption levels.
10. Dunkin’ Glazed Jelly Stick
Dunkin’s Glazed Jelly Stick offers 480 calories and contains trans fats along with refined sugars and flour. This deep-fried treat is a quick way to spike your blood sugar.
Sugar-Sweetened Soda
Sodas like Mountain Dew and Coca-Cola are major sources of empty calories. A 16-ounce bottle contains 200 calories and 52 grams of sugar, primarily in the form of fructose, which increases the risk of heart disease and obesity.
12. Cold Stone Mud Pie Mojo
Cold Stone’s Mud Pie Mojo combines coffee ice cream with mix-ins like Oreo cookies and fudge. A large serving hits 1,240 calories and 123 grams of carbs. It’s a dessert that doubles as a meal.
13. Corn Dogs
Corn dogs might spark nostalgia, but their combination of processed meat and deep-fried batter is far from healthy. They contain sodium nitrates and nitrites, preservatives linked to increased cancer risk.
14. McDonald’s Triple Thick Milkshake
McDonald’s Triple Thick Milkshake provides 1,100 calories and 193 grams of carbs. Its sugar content is nearly triple the daily recommended intake, making it one of the chain’s unhealthiest offerings.
15. Packaged Cookies
From Oreos to Chips Ahoy!, packaged cookies are loaded with added sugars and preservatives. A single serving often contains more sugar than you’d expect, contributing to weight gain and inflammation.
A Love Affair with Junk Food
Despite the clear health risks, America’s love for junk food shows no signs of slowing. These items, though delicious, are best consumed in moderation or replaced with healthier alternatives.
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