Archive · 29 Jul 2025
Study: Processed Foods Pose Addiction Risk Similar to Drugs
Imagine certain foods, like chips and cookies, can be as addictive as drugs.
Scientists looked at many studies and found that these "ultra-processed" foods can trick our brains, making us crave them and lose control over how much we eat.
The brain circuits of people who eat these foods compulsively look like those of people addicted to drugs.
Experts say that we should recognize this as a real problem and create rules similar to those for tobacco, like not advertising these foods to children.
Study finds ultra-processed foods can trigger addictive behaviors akin to substance-use disorders.
Researchers synthesized data from nearly 300 studies across 36 countries.
Ultra-processed foods can hijack the brain's reward system, leading to cravings and loss of control.
Neuroimaging shows similar brain circuit disruptions in those with compulsive intake of these foods as in alcohol/cocaine addiction.
Researchers call for official recognition of ultra-processed food addiction and protective measures like tobacco control.
- Who
- Researchers led by Ashley Gearhardt at the University of Michigan, US.
- What
- Study suggests ultra-processed foods trigger addictive behaviors like substance-use disorders.
- When
- Data from nearly 300 studies across 36 countries was synthesized.
- Where
- Findings are based on research across 36 countries.
- Why
- To understand the addictive potential of ultra-processed foods and their impact on public health.
Researchers & Experts
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)
Food Addiction Recognition
Researchers & Experts
Ultra-processed food addiction needs recognition, research, and treatment.
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)
Implicit view; current diagnostic systems do not sufficiently recognize the addictive potential of these foods, or do not consider this addiction as being worthy of further study.
Regulatory Approaches
Researchers & Experts
Protective measures akin to tobacco control should be enacted for ultra-processed foods (restrictions on marketing to children, clearer labeling, public education).
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)
Implicit; current regulations do not adequately address the issue of ultra-processed foods.
- Main Finding
- Ultra-processed foods can trigger addiction
- Study Scope
- Synthesis of nearly 300 studies
- Countries Studied
- 36
- Lead Author
- Ashley Gearhardt
- Expert Argument
- Recognition needed for ultra-processed food addiction
- Proposed Actions
- Protective measures like tobacco control
