UPDATE: Experts are sounding the alarm on a significant rise in ultra-processed foods (UPFs) worldwide, linking their consumption to a surge in chronic health issues. A new series published in The Lancet reveals that UPFs are now reshaping global diets, posing serious public health risks.
The report, co-authored by 43 international experts, outlines how UPF companies manipulate marketing and lobbying to maximize profits while undermining public health initiatives. With global sales of UPFs reaching a staggering $1.9 trillion, urgent action is needed to protect consumers and promote healthier food systems.
Rising Consumption Sparks Global Health Concerns
The findings indicate that UPFs are increasingly dominating diets, contributing to the displacement of fresh foods and traditional meals. Professor Carlos Monteiro, a leading researcher from the University of Sao Paulo, states, “The growing consumption of ultra-processed foods is reshaping diets worldwide, fueled by powerful global corporations.”
The series identifies alarming trends, including a tripling of dietary energy from UPFs in countries like Spain and China over the past three decades, and a sharp rise in consumption in Mexico and Brazil. In the USA and UK, UPF consumption has remained above 50% for the last two decades.
Policy Action Needed Now
The authors emphasize that tackling this crisis requires immediate, coordinated policy actions. Professor Camila Corvalan from the University of Chile advocates for government interventions, including clearer labeling of UPFs and restrictions on marketing these unhealthy products, especially to children.
Dr. Phillip Baker from the University of Sydney echoes this sentiment, calling for a global public health response akin to efforts against the tobacco industry. “Safeguarding policy spaces from political lobbying is essential to advocate for healthier food systems,” he says.
The series also highlights the concerning health risks associated with UPFs. A systematic review of long-term studies found that 92 out of 104 studies linked high UPF consumption to increased risks of chronic diseases like obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular issues.
Urgent Need for Change
As the report stresses, while scientific debates on UPFs continue, the overwhelming evidence necessitates immediate public health action. Professor Mathilde Touvier of the French National Institute for Health and Medical Research insists, “The growing body of research suggests diets high in ultra-processed foods are harming health globally.”
The second paper in the series outlines specific policy options aimed at curbing UPF production and marketing. Recommendations include implementing front-of-package labels and stronger marketing restrictions, particularly in schools.
Success Stories and Future Directions
Brazil’s national school feeding program, which mandates that 90% of school food be fresh or minimally processed by 2026, serves as a model for reform. The authors argue that taxing specific UPFs could fund healthier food options, especially for low-income families.
Professor Marion Nestle from New York University emphasizes the necessity of tailoring policies to each country’s unique context, stating, “Urgent action is needed everywhere to regulate ultra-processed foods.”
The series concludes with a call for a unified global response to combat the overwhelming influence of UPF corporations. Professor Karen Hoffman from the University of the Witwatersrand urges that we need to confront the corporate power driving the UPF boom, stating, “Just as we confronted the tobacco industry decades ago, we need a bold, coordinated global response now.”
As consumption of ultra-processed foods continues to rise, affecting health outcomes worldwide, experts are urging immediate action to create healthier, more sustainable food systems. The time to act is now.
