NZ imports of unhealthy ultra-processed foods have risen sharply since 1990 – new study
- Written by Kelly Garton, Senior Research Fellow in Population Health, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau
Getty ImagesOver the past three decades, New Zealand’s imports of “ultra-processed” foods and drinks increased significantly, from 16 kilograms per person in 1990 to 104 kilograms in 2023.
Our research shows the share of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) in New Zealand’s total food and drink imports rose from 9% in 1990 to 22%...





