Indicator 1.7 Total energy intake from saturated fatty acids

Considerations

Data for this indicator are not available for update—baseline results reported.

Overview

In 2011–12, it was estimated that 12% of energy intake for Australian adults was from saturated fats (including trans fatty acids) based on self-reported data from the National Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey, which exceeds the recommended intake of no more than 10% of energy.

Age and sex

There was no significant difference between males and females, and little difference across age groups (Figure 1.7).

Population groups

There was no significant difference in the energy intake from saturated fat by socioeconomic status. While those living in Major cities consumed a significantly lower proportion of saturated fat compared with those living in other areas, differences were small (Figure 1.7).

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

In 2012–13, Indigenous Australians consumed 13% of their total energy intake from saturated fats, based on self-reported data from the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Nutrition and Physical activity Survey. There was no difference between Indigenous males and females.

Explore the data

Total energy intake from saturated fatty acids, by selected population group, 2011–12

The figure shows the mean contribution to energy intake from saturated fatty acids, by selected population groups in 2011–12. The mean energy intake from saturated fatty acids was slightly higher among children aged 2–17 (around 14% for both males and females) than adults (around 12% for both males and females). The mean contribution to energy intake from saturated fatty acids was similar by Indigenous status, level of remoteness and socioeconomic area. Among the states and territories, the mean intake was similar, ranging from 12% to 14%. 

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Indicator 1.7 data specifications

 

Definition

Data source

Numerator

Mean proportion of total energy intake from saturated fatty acids and trans fatty acids (2+ years).

ABS 2015; ABS 2013.

 

Denominator

Estimated Australian population (2+ years).

ABS 2015; ABS 2013.

 

References

Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) 2013. Microdata: Australian Health Survey, Nutrition and Physical Activity, 2011–12. ABS cat. no. 4324.0.55.002. Findings based on Expanded Confidentialised Unit Record file. Canberra: ABS.

ABS 2015. Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Survey: Nutrition Results - Food and Nutrients, 2012-13. ABS cat no. 4727.0.55.005. Canberra: ABS.