The Health Risks of Ultra-Processed Foods: A Comprehensive Review

A new review of 45 meta-analyses published in The BMJ journal found that diets high in ultra-processed foods are associated with an increased risk of 32 damaging health outcomes, including cancer, major heart and lung conditions, obesity, type 2 diabetes, mental health disorders, and early death. The study revealed "convincing" evidence linking higher intake of ultra-processed foods to increased risk of cardiovascular disease-related death, anxiety, common mental disorders, and type 2 diabetes, while "highly suggestive" evidence indicated greater risk of death from any cause, heart disease-related death, obesity, and depression. The authors urge officials to prioritize public health through measures such as front-of-the-pack food labels and economic policies to make fresh and minimally-processed foods more accessible and affordable.