Overview
- The three‑paper series by 43 experts reports that ultra‑processed foods are displacing fresh foods globally and are associated with a wide range of chronic diseases.
- A systematic review of 104 long‑term studies found 92 showing higher risks, with significant associations for 12 conditions including type 2 diabetes, obesity and depression.
- The authors attribute the rise of these products to the economic and political power of multinational firms that shape markets and policy to block effective regulation.
- Proposed measures include adding UPF markers to front‑of‑pack labels, restricting advertising to children, taxing certain products, limiting sales in schools and hospitals, and capping supermarket shelf space.
- UPFs account for over half of average diets in the US, UK and Australia, while industry groups and some scientists emphasize reformulation gains and argue the recommendations exceed current evidence.