Every year on July 21st, food lovers across the United States and beyond come together to celebrate National Junk Food Day — a day dedicated to enjoying your favorite guilty pleasures without any regrets! Whether it's crispy fries, cheesy pizzas, creamy milkshakes, or spicy chips, this fun holiday is all about indulging in the flavors we usually try to avoid.
What Is National Junk Food Day?
National Junk Food Day is an unofficial holiday that encourages people to break away from their usual healthy eating routines and satisfy their cravings for all things sweet, salty, and savory. It’s the perfect excuse to treat yourself to those high-calorie, sugar-filled snacks that bring instant joy.
While the origins of this day remain unclear, its popularity has grown thanks to social media, where foodies and brands alike share their best cheat day bites.
What Counts as Junk Food?
Junk food typically refers to processed foods that are high in calories, sugar, fat, and salt — and low in nutritional value. Common examples include:
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Burgers and hot dogs
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Potato chips and nachos
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Candy and chocolates
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Donuts and cupcakes
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Ice cream and milkshakes
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Sugary sodas and energy drinks
While not the healthiest options, these foods are undeniably delicious and comforting.
How to Celebrate National Junk Food Day
Here are some fun and tasty ways to make the most of this indulgent day:
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Host a Junk Food Party – Invite friends over and serve a variety of snacks and fast foods.
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Try a New Snack – Explore unique junk foods from different cultures or local food trucks.
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Cook Your Own Treats – Make homemade versions of your favorite snacks like loaded nachos or deep-fried Oreos.
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Share on Social Media – Post your cheat day meals using hashtags like #JunkFoodDay or #CheatDayGoals.
A Note on Balance
While it’s fun to indulge, it’s also important to maintain a balanced diet. Enjoying junk food occasionally is okay, but try not to make it a daily habit. Pairing this celebration with a walk, bike ride, or light exercise can help you feel even better about your treat day.
Conclusion
National Junk Food Day is a delicious reminder that it’s okay to give in to temptation once in a while. It brings joy, nostalgia, and a little break from the usual diet routine. So go ahead—grab that burger, order those fries, and savor every bite. After all, life’s too short to say no to your favorite food every day!