The introduction of processed foods into Low and Middle Income Countries (LMICs) is a violation of food justice. Just participation in food systems requires that agents give informed consent concerning their food choices. Choices must be made in the absence of external influences.
Research shows that food choices are inevitably under the influence of external forces. The food environment has a strong influence on food choice. When cheap, convenient, and calorically dense foods are introduced and advertised, populations experience higher rates of obesity and metabolic disorders.. This occurs even when agents are educated regarding the nutritional value of products.
When it comes to food choices in a market flooded with processed foods, the conditions for informed consent are not met. This is a prima facie violation of participative food justice and global food corporations can be understood as coercing citizens LMICs to act in a way harmful to their health.
