Background of the Study:
Processed foods—often high in fats, sugars, and sodium—have become increasingly prevalent in Jigawa State due to urbanization and changing dietary trends. These foods are convenient and widely available but are linked to various adverse health outcomes, including obesity, hypertension, and metabolic disorders (Okeke, 2023). In Jigawa State, the nutritional transition from traditional, whole-food-based diets to highly processed food consumption has raised public health concerns. Many residents, particularly in urban centers, are exposed to aggressive marketing strategies promoting fast foods and sugary beverages. This shift in dietary habits is associated with a rise in non-communicable diseases and a decline in overall health (Aminu, 2024).
The convenience of processed foods, coupled with limited nutritional education, has led to a high consumption rate among various age groups. Economic factors also play a role, as processed foods are often perceived as cost-effective despite their low nutritional value. The long-term impact of these dietary changes includes an increased risk of chronic diseases and higher healthcare costs. Public health initiatives have attempted to promote healthier eating; however, the deep-rooted cultural acceptance of processed foods and the lack of regulation in food marketing remain significant challenges (Ibrahim, 2025). This study seeks to evaluate the impact of processed food consumption on health outcomes in Jigawa State, with the goal of identifying effective strategies to mitigate the adverse health effects associated with this dietary trend.
Statement of the Problem:
In Jigawa State, the rising consumption of processed foods is contributing to a growing public health burden. Despite the availability of healthier traditional food options, many residents opt for processed food due to its convenience and aggressive marketing. This dietary shift is associated with increased prevalence of obesity, hypertension, and other metabolic disorders, which strain the local healthcare system (Umar, 2023). The health risks associated with processed food consumption are compounded by low levels of nutritional literacy and limited public health interventions to promote better eating habits. As a result, the long-term health outcomes for many individuals in Jigawa State are compromised, leading to higher rates of chronic diseases and increased healthcare expenditures. The gap between public awareness of healthy dietary practices and actual food consumption patterns suggests that existing interventions are inadequate. This study aims to systematically investigate the effect of processed food consumption on health in Jigawa State, thereby providing evidence to guide future nutritional policies and public health initiatives.
Objectives of the Study:
Research Questions:
Research Hypotheses:
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
The study focuses on urban and peri-urban communities in Jigawa State. Limitations include reliance on self-reported dietary data and potential confounding factors such as physical activity levels.
Definitions of Terms:
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