Diet and Criminal Behavior (Adult Population)

Growing concerns about the negative impacts of ultra-processed foods on mental health and antisocial behavior are driving new research into the biophysiological effects, such as those involving the microbiome, and reevaluating past studies on diet and criminal actions. This article sheds light on the emerging field of nutritional psychiatry and its importance for criminology and criminal justice, areas that have yet to fully embrace its relevance. With public health officials, mental health experts, and policymakers playing vital roles in the criminal justice process, adopting a comprehensive view that incorporates both new findings and historical data is essential. Despite unresolved questions, dietary factors may be significantly overlooked in preventing and addressing crime. The complex relationship between diet, societal structures, and health calls for a broad discussion on food-related social issues, already partially addressed under the concept of "food crime." This paper advocates for the increased examination of "nutritional criminology," proposing that a merged approach of past and recent research could enhance understanding and stimulate further study and collaboration in this multidisciplinary area. [NPID: Criminal behavior, food crime, justice system, diet, criminal justice, ultra-processed foods, anti-social behaviors]