Ultra-processed food (UPF) has been found to have direct associations with higher risks of cancer, heart disease, and early death, according to the world’s largest review of its kind. The review, conducted by experts from leading institutions such as Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, the University of Sydney, and Sorbonne University, involved almost 10 million people and spanned 45 distinct meta-analyses.
The findings underline the harmful effects of UPF on various aspects of health, including cardiovascular, mental, respiratory, gastrointestinal, and metabolic health. Consumption of UPF has been rapidly increasing globally, with the UK and US populations consuming more than half of their diets as ultra-processed food. This percentage is even higher for certain groups, such as younger individuals, those from disadvantaged areas, and those with lower socioeconomic status.
Ultra-processed foods undergo multiple industrial processes and often contain additives such as colors, emulsifiers, and flavors
