South Africa’s obesity crisis is intensifying, with nearly half of the country’s adult population now classified as overweight or obese. Health experts warn that the rapid expansion of fast-food outlets and the growing consumption of ultra-processed foods are major drivers behind the alarming trend.
Women are disproportionately affected by the epidemic. Almost 70% of adult women in South Africa fall into the overweight or obese category, while childhood obesity is also on the rise. In a troubling shift, more South African children are now overweight than underweight.
The country’s fast-food industry has grown significantly in recent years. More than 5,982 fast-food outlets were operating across South Africa during 2024–2025, with KFC dominating the market with over 1,000 restaurants nationwide. The sector continues to expand rapidly, with industry revenues projected to reach R90 billion by 2026. Surveys suggest that about half of South African adults purchased fast food within the past year.
At the same time, ultra-processed foods — typically high in sugar, salt and unhealthy fats — have become a major part of daily diets. Among low-income South African adults, these foods now account for roughly 40% of total daily consumption.
Researchers say the shift toward ultra-processed diets is closely linked to rising rates of non-communicable diseases.
“South Africa’s rising tide of obesity and non-communicable diseases is driven in part by the proliferation of ultra-processed products,” said Tamryn Frank, an obesity and nutrition researcher at the University of the Western Cape. She noted that these foods are associated with higher risks of type 2 diabetes, heart disease and certain cancers, placing additional strain on the country’s healthcare system.
Unlike trends seen in many high-income countries, obesity in South Africa is strongly tied to poverty and food insecurity. Nearly 70% of obese adults live in food-insecure households, illustrating the complex relationship between hunger and poor nutrition.
“The food environment in many communities promotes ultra-processed, low-nutrient foods because they are the cheapest options available,” said Rina Swart, head of nutrition programmes at the University of the Western Cape. She added that without making healthier foods both affordable and accessible, reversing the country’s obesity crisis will remain difficult.
The health consequences are significant. Obesity greatly increases the risk of developing conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease and certain cancers, adding further pressure to an already stretched public healthcare system.
Experts also caution against placing responsibility solely on individuals. The Association for Dietetics in South Africa argues that obesity is shaped by broader social and economic forces.
“We need to move beyond telling individuals to eat less and exercise more,” said Maria van der Merwe, head of the Association. “Obesity is influenced by complex environmental and economic factors that require systemic policy solutions.”
Public health specialists are therefore calling for stronger policy interventions, including stricter regulations on unhealthy food advertising, clearer front-of-pack warning labels, expanded taxes on sugary drinks and fast foods, and improved access to affordable, nutritious food in low-income communities.
Without decisive policy reform and coordinated action, experts warn that South Africa’s obesity crisis will continue to escalate — with serious implications for the country’s public health system and long-term economic wellbeing.
