1. Introduction to the text
This reading lesson discusses the dangers of highly processed foods, known as “ultra-processed foods,” and the growing awareness of this issue in Western countries.
2. Vocabulary
| Korean Word | Romanization | English Meaning | Contextual Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| 후회하고 또 먹는다 | Huhoehagodonmeongda | To regret and eat again | They regret and eat it again. |
| 초가공식품 | Choagongsiksik | Ultra-processed food | The dangers of ultra-processed foods are discussed. |
| 있습니다 | Isseumnida | To exist, to be | There are many ultra-processed foods available. |
| 초가공식품에 | Choagongsiksige | Regarding ultra-processed foods | Concerns about ultra-processed foods are growing. |
| 대한 | Daehaneun | About, regarding | Concerns about ultra-processed foods are growing. |
3. The main text in both Korean and English
방송과 유튜브를 켜면 ‘먹방’이 넘쳐납니다. 식품업체들은 경쟁적으로 신제품을 출시합니다. 인공 첨가물들의 향연입니다.
Turning on TV or YouTube, you see an abundance of “mukbang” (eating broadcasts). Food companies are competitively launching new products. It is a feast of artificial additives.
시중에서 쉽게 구할 수 있는 가공식품 대부분이 초가공식품에 해당합니다. 미국 미시건대 연구팀은 미국 전역 인구에 대한 표본조사를 진행했습니다.
Most processed foods easily available in the market are considered ultra-processed foods. A research team from the University of Michigan conducted a nationwide survey of the US population.
다만 그래프에 나타난 것처럼 그 상관 관계가 정비례하지는 않는 나라도 있었습니다. 이처럼 서구 곳곳에서 초가공식품에 대한 경각심이 확산하면서 식품 업체들의 대체 제품 출시도 잇따르고 있습니다.
However, as shown in the graph, there were also countries where the correlation was not directly proportional. As awareness of ultra-processed foods is spreading across the West, food companies are also releasing alternative products.
4. Reading comprehension questions
- What is the main topic of this reading?
- What is the definition of “ultra-processed foods”?
- What did the research team from the University of Michigan do?
- How is the awareness of ultra-processed foods changing in Western countries?
- What are some of the responses from food companies to this growing awareness?
5. Cultural and historical notes
The rise of “mukbang” (eating broadcasts) and the competitive launch of new food products by companies reflect the growing popularity and accessibility of highly processed foods in many countries. However, as concerns about the health risks of these ultra-processed foods spread, food companies are starting to respond by offering alternative, less processed options.