Global study: Consumption of ultra processed foods to preventable premature deaths

A recent study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine examined dietary and mortality data from eight countries—Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, the UK, and the US—revealing a strong link between ultra processed food (UPF) consumption and premature deaths. UPFs are industrially manufactured, ready-to-eat or heat products with minimal whole food content, often high in harmful additives like artificial colors, flavors, and sweeteners. According to lead researcher Eduardo Nilson of Brazil’s Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, the health impact of UPFs extends beyond nutrient content due to processing-related changes and synthetic ingredients. While high-income countries show stable yet high UPF intake, consumption is rising rapidly in low- and middle-income nations, increasing related health burdens. The study connects UPFs to 32 diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, obesity, cancer, and depression. These findings highlight the urgent need for global nutrition policies that reduce UPF consumption and support traditional diets based on fresh, minimally processed foods.

05-05-2025