Junk Food: how do we define it and how is it defined by others?

I have always been one of those people that wanted to know what we define as junk food and how others define it. I believe that junk food is a definition that is very discretionary and is subjective depending on the source of the definition and how it is applied to different situations and circumstances. What is defined as junk food?

Junk food can be defined, as those foods and drinks that are tempting, taste good and satisfactory. Agree or disagree with me, most people are guilty of that chocolate covered fruit, candy bar, can or bottle of soda, favorite potato chips, best tasting ice cream, cookies, cakes, pies, jellos, or other snack that crave for or can not get enough of. We give them to our family, our friends and ourselves. It is close to the holidays. We are guilty of giving out those guilty pleasures, those items we identify as junk food (although, we may not be able to afford to do it this year).

First, junk food is generically listed as food, drinks, sugary or salty items that are high in calories, high in sugar, high in salt, and/or high in fat. I remember as a high school student that we sold candy and candy apples as part of fundraiser events for school activities and trips to academic competitions. In addition, after I graduated from high school, I volunteered for the booster club, where we sold those notorious high selling items that sell in high numbers.

We sold hot dogs, french fries, pizza, candy, cookies, croissants, nutri-grain bars, bottled water, Gatorade, soda, popcorn, chili, chilidogs, chili cheese dogs, hot chocolate, cheese fries, nachos, juice, and many other favorites that our patrons enjoyed and appreciated. Can you imagine arriving to a high school football or basketball game and not having the option of enjoying some of your favorite items? It has become a part of attending the event.

I am sure that some of us have gone to football and basketball games where no concession stand was open. It is unfortunate and no fun. I admit. I am among one of those people. However, for many of us, enjoying these identified junk food items are expected to be a part of the enjoyment. I think there would be public outcries if we eliminated such junk food items, as are served at professional football, basketball and baseball games. We know that beer is not the healthiest item for you at one of these venues and would be categorized under that "junk food" category. I cannot see it being taken off the menu of choices.

Like everything else in our lives, we must consume these items in moderation. It is very difficult to do, when you have holidays, weddings, graduations, birthdays, sporting events, baby showers, confirmations, and many other events that we celebrate with food and fun. Food identified as junk food has been around for a long time. I think stress levels are different and people are looking for comfort. Times are different. The world does not rest and is now a 24/7 society, and so are our minds. Now is not the time to start criticizing people for the "junk food" items that they may eat. Under the current circumstances, it may all that many people can afford.

As I said before, junk food is subjective and discretionary. It is junk food for some people and a meal for others.