They lead to an early death.
A new comprehensive review has found that a higher intake of ultra-processed foods is strongly linked to an increased risk of early death. According to findings published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, each 10% rise in the consumption of these foods correlates with a 3% higher risk of dying prematurely from any cause.
Researchers estimate that the widespread consumption of industrially manufactured foods accounts for tens of thousands of early deaths globally. In particular, the United States leads the world in ultra-processed food consumption, with these products making up over 54% of the average American’s diet. In fact, more than 124,000 early deaths in the U.S. during 2017–2018 are believed to be linked to diets heavy in these processed products.
Lead researcher Eduardo Nilson of Brazil’s Oswaldo Cruz Foundation emphasized the urgent need for policies that reduce ultra-processed food consumption and encourage diets based on fresh, minimally processed local foods. Ultra-processed foods are typically composed of ingredients extracted from natural foods, such as refined fats, sugars, and starches, and often include additives like flavorings, colorings, emulsifiers, and preservatives to enhance taste and shelf life. Examples include processed snacks, sweetened breakfast cereals, prepackaged meals, and deli meats.
The study pooled data from eight countries, including Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Researchers assessed how much ultra-processed food made up the typical diet in each country and linked it to mortality rates. Colombia had the lowest consumption at about 15% of daily calories, while the U.S. and U.K. topped the list with over 53%. Deaths attributed to these foods ranged from roughly 4% in Colombia and Brazil to nearly 14% in the U.S. and U.K. Nilson warned that while ultra-processed food intake has stabilized in wealthier nations, it continues to rise in lower-income countries, potentially increasing their future health burdens.
Discussion about this post