Ultra-Processed Foods Linked to Higher Risk of Early Death, Study Finds

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Rising mortality rates associated with ultra-processed food consumption

A major international study has found that consuming higher amounts of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) significantly increases the risk of premature death. The research, published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, analysed data from eight countries, including the US, England, Australia, and Brazil. It concluded that every 10% increase in UPF intake raises the likelihood of dying before the age of 75 by approximately 3%.

The review estimated that UPFs are linked to 124,107 early deaths annually in the US and 17,781 deaths each year in England. Countries where UPF consumption accounts for a larger share of daily energy intake, such as the US (54.5%) and England (53.4%), show the highest mortality rates attributable to these foods. Researchers observed a consistent pattern across the surveyed nations, with Colombia, Brazil, and Chile also reporting significant, albeit lower, percentages of premature deaths tied to UPF consumption.

Health experts involved in the study noted that UPFs contribute to ill health not only due to high levels of salt, sugar, and fat but also because of the additives and artificial ingredients used during industrial processing. This includes emulsifiers, sweeteners, and flavour enhancers, which are believed to have independent harmful effects on health beyond their nutrient content.

Calls for stronger regulation to curb UPF consumption

The findings have prompted renewed calls for governments worldwide to take stronger action against the spread of ultra-processed foods. The researchers recommended implementing stricter regulations on food marketing, limiting the availability of UPF products in schools and workplaces, and introducing taxes on such products to discourage consumption.

Although the study established a strong association between UPF intake and early death, it did not claim a direct cause-and-effect relationship. Previous research has similarly indicated that diets high in processed meats, sugary foods, and ultra-processed breakfast products carry elevated health risks. In response, health authorities in the UK highlighted ongoing measures to curb junk food advertising targeted at children and emphasised future plans to shift public health efforts towards preventing diet-related illnesses rather than merely treating them