Overview

• Using nationally representative data from more than 2,000 older Americans, researchers found 21% of women and 10% of men ages roughly 50–64 met criteria for ultra‑processed food addiction, versus 12% of women and 4% of men ages 65–80.
• The study, published in Addiction, applied the modified Yale Food Addiction Scale 2.0, which assesses experiences such as cravings, withdrawal, and repeated unsuccessful efforts to cut down.
• The gender pattern departs from many substance use disorders, with higher prevalence in women than men in the age groups studied.
• Meeting the criteria was strongly associated with self‑perceived overweight, poorer mental and physical health, and social isolation; for example, women who reported being overweight were over 11 times more likely to meet the criteria, and overweight men were 19 times more likely.
• The authors propose historical exposure and marketing of “diet” ultra‑processed products as a potential factor and caution that today’s higher consumption among children could elevate future addiction risk.