Experts Warn: Ultra-Processed Foods Pose Serious Health Risks

A recent study conducted by 43 global experts and published in the Lancet medical journal warns that ultra-processed foods pose a significant threat to public health, necessitating immediate global action.

Among the experts is Brazilian researcher Carlos Monteiro, who coined the term approximately 15 years ago. He noted that these foods have become increasingly prevalent worldwide and are associated with a decline in diet quality and the emergence of various diseases, including obesity and cancer.

Monteiro stated during an online press conference on Tuesday:

"What we know today about ultra-processed foods and human health justifies public action on a global scale."

* What Are Ultra-Processed Foods?

Ultra-processed foods are items made using advanced techniques and industrial additives, often containing minimal whole food ingredients.

Notable examples include: sugary sodas and instant noodles.

While the term has gained traction in recent years, some scientists and producers argue that its classification is overly simplistic and that the discussion has become increasingly politicized.

The authors of the research articles acknowledged the need for more evidence, particularly to understand how these foods contribute to disease and the differences among products in this category. However, they emphasized that current evidence is sufficient to prompt government action.

* Study Findings

The researchers reviewed 104 long-term studies and found that 92 established a link between diets high in ultra-processed foods and an increased risk of chronic diseases.

These diseases include 12 health issues, such as:

• Type 2 diabetes

• Obesity

• Depression

The researchers noted that the primary driver of the global spread of ultra-processed foods is the economic and political power of the industrial food sector, which prioritizes profit over public health.

These foods are associated with an increased risk of obesity, heart disease, cancer, and early mortality.

This warning comes at a time when the popularity of instant noodles and sugary drinks is rising globally, presenting a significant public health challenge that requires urgent responses from governments and health institutions.