A sweeping new study has linked ultra-processed foods to over 120,000 premature deaths in the U.S., warning that the modern diet may be quietly eroding life expectancy across the globe.
At a Glance
- Ultra-processed foods linked to increased risk of early death
- Items include sodas, processed meats, packaged snacks, and sugary cereals
- Study attributes 14% of premature deaths in the U.S. and U.K. to UPFs
- Research published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine
- Experts call for policy action, including taxes and tighter food labeling
Ultra-Processed Foods: A Hidden Hazard
From fizzy drinks and frozen pizzas to processed meats and boxed cereals, ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are a staple in Western diets—and now, researchers say, a deadly one. According to a new multinational study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, UPFs are associated with more than 124,000 U.S. deaths over just two years.
These foods, often high in additives, artificial flavorings, and industrial ingredients, have been tied to cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and early mortality. The study relied on the NOVA classification, which defines UPFs as industrially formulated products containing five or more ingredients, many of which are not used in home cooking.
Watch BBC’s coverage on the dietary dangers at “Why ultra-processed food is a health risk”.
Global Impact and Local Lessons
The study examined data from eight countries, with the United States and United Kingdom reporting the highest UPF consumption and mortality burden—roughly 14% of early adult deaths. In contrast, lower consumption countries like Brazil saw a 4% impact, though still significant. Brazilian researchers reported 25,000 preventable deaths from UPF consumption between 2017 and 2018 alone.
Dr. Eduardo Nilson, lead author of the study, explained to the BBC: “Because of the changes in the foods during industrial processing and the use of artificial ingredients… these products contribute to long-term health risks.”
Policy Solutions and Public Pushback
Experts agree that the solution goes beyond consumer awareness. Lead researcher Nilson and others advocate for taxes on UPFs, subsidies for whole foods, stricter marketing regulations, and mandatory front-of-package nutrition warnings.
Dr. Stephen Burgess noted, “Ultra-processed foods may be more than a bystander,” reinforcing the need for governments to act decisively.
Still, some experts urge caution. Professor Kevin McConway told the BBC that while the correlation is strong, further study is needed to determine which aspects of UPFs are most harmful.
The Bigger Picture
As ultra-processed foods continue to displace fresh, whole ingredients around the globe, health officials warn that convenience could be costing lives. This study adds weight to growing concerns among public health advocates, as global obesity and diabetes rates continue to climb.
If current consumption trends persist, experts fear that early death caused by diet may soon rival more traditional threats like smoking and alcohol. For now, researchers urge policymakers to prioritize nutrition-based regulation before more lives are lost.
