Overview
- Three papers from 43 experts in The Lancet compile global evidence linking higher ultra‑processed food intake to obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and premature death.
- A systematic review identified 104 epidemiological studies, 92 of which reported increased health risks among higher consumers of ultra‑processed foods.
- The authors report these products supply over half of calories in the United States and United Kingdom and about 30–35% in France, with harms falling disproportionately on lower‑income groups.
- Recommended measures include an upgraded Nutri‑Score with a black warning banner, restrictions on advertising to children, targeted taxes and bans in schools and hospitals.
- Researchers describe food‑industry tactics as comparable to those of tobacco to dispute science and delay regulation, while acknowledging ongoing debate over the Nova definition and biological mechanisms.