Overview
- A three-paper series published November 19 synthesizes 104 studies, with more than 90 associating higher intake of ultra-processed foods with obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, depressive symptoms and premature mortality.
- The researchers report that these products account for about 60% of daily calories in the United States and United Kingdom and roughly 30–35% in France, highlighting their dominant role in modern diets.
- Proposals include mandatory front-of-pack labeling with an ultraprocessing signal via an upgraded Nutri-Score, restrictions on advertising and promotions, and protections for schools and collective catering.
- One paper details strategies used by major food companies—compared to tactics from the tobacco playbook—including funding diversionary research, image-washing, attacking critical studies and intensive lobbying.
- The authors acknowledge methodological debates and the need to strengthen causal evidence, while several experts argue action is warranted, noting disproportionate risks for socioeconomically disadvantaged groups.