Archive · 19 Nov 2025
Global Experts Urge Action Against Ultra-Processed Foods
Scientists from around the world are warning that ultra-processed foods, which are made with lots of processing and additives, are making people sick.
They want governments to do something about it, but the food industry says we need more proof and that these foods are affordable for people.
43 global experts call for urgent action against ultra-processed foods (UPFs)
UPFs linked to decline in diet quality and various diseases like obesity and cancer
Evidence from 104 long-term studies shows significant associations with 12 health conditions
Experts propose national policies and industry involvement to tackle the issue
Food industry argues for more evidence and affordability concerns
- Who
- 43 global experts in the Lancet medical journal
- What
- Issued a warning about ultra-processed foods
- When
- In a series of papers published in The Lancet
- Where
- Worldwide, with consumption rising in countries like the United States
- Why
- To address the link between UPFs and health issues such as obesity, diabetes, and cancer
Experts and Health Advocates
Food Industry
Evidence for Action
Experts and Health Advocates
Strong enough for governments to take action now
Food Industry
More evidence needed, especially on causality and product differences
Industry Role
Experts and Health Advocates
Biggest barrier to tackling the issue
Food Industry
Wants to improve global health outcomes and be part of policymaking
- UPF Definition
- Foods made using processing techniques, additives, and industrial ingredients, with little whole foods
- Examples of UPFs
- Carbonated soft drinks, instant noodles, etc.
- Number of Studies
- 104 long-term studies
- Health Conditions Linked
- 12, including Type 2 diabetes, obesity, and depression
- Funding Source
- Bloomberg Philanthropies
Sources
Ultra-processed foods are danger to global public health, experts warn – ThePrint – ReutersFeed
18-year-old battling obesity, diabetes, borderline cholesterol: Lancet study looks inside India’s ultra-processed food epidemic
Ultra-Processed Foods Are Danger To Global Public Health, Experts Warn
Should ultra-processed foods like chips, chicken nuggets be taxed?
Ultra-Processed Food Sales Surge In India, Causing Obesity And Diabetes Crisis: Lancet Study
Ultra-processed food sales up 40x in India, fuelling obesity and diabetes: The Lancet
Ultra-processed foods in diets rise globally; need to cut production, marketing: Lancet papers
Ultra-processed foods in diets rise globally; need to cut production, marketing: Lancet papers
