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A large portion of McDonald's french fries contain 500 calories, and more than 38% of a person's recommended daily fat intake Junk food is a term used to describe food that is high in calories from macronutrients such as sugar and fat, and often also high in sodium, making it hyperpalatable, and almost always low in dietary fiber, protein, or micronutrients such as vitamins and minerals. It is also known as high in fat, salt, and sugar food (HFSS food). The term junk food is a pejorative dating back to the 1950s.
Precise definitions vary by purpose and over time. Some high-protein foods, like meat prepared with saturated fat, may be considered junk food. Fast food and fast-food restaurants are often equated with junk food, although fast foods cannot be categorically described as junk food. Candy, soft drinks, and highly processed foods such as certain breakfast cereals, are generally included in the junk food category; much of it is ultra-processed food.