UK eats almost four times more packaged food than fresh

Most of western Europe and north America also consumes more calories from packaged food than fresh according to analysis of data from 54 countries

The UK eats almost four times as much packaged food as it does fresh produce, according to new data, with most of western Europe and north America following a similar pattern.

The packaged food revolution - which includes ready meals and calorific cakes and biscuits - is held at least partly to blame for the rise in obesity in the US and Europe. Fresh food has played a smaller and smaller part in some families' lives as the pace of life has speeded up over recent decades, working hours have increased and more women have entered the workplace. Set against this is the rise of ever more tasty instant meals.