Study Links Ultra-Processed Foods to Early Death, Urges Stricter Regulations and Dietary Changes
April 28, 2025
To effectively reduce UPF consumption, strategies must extend beyond consumer education to include fiscal policies and improved food labeling.
While the study supports reducing UPF consumption in dietary recommendations, experts warn against hasty public policy changes without further evidence.
Despite the study's findings, critics argue that labeling UPFs negatively could limit access to healthier food options and exacerbate health disparities.
Some experts caution against making immediate changes to dietary guidelines based solely on this study, citing its observational nature and limitations.
Countries with lower UPF consumption, such as Colombia and Brazil, could have prevented thousands of deaths if their consumption levels were reduced to zero.
Previous studies have linked UPF consumption to various health risks, including a 50% higher risk of cardiovascular disease-related death and increased likelihood of mental health issues.
Researchers are urging governments to provide dietary recommendations aimed at reducing UPF consumption to improve public health outcomes.
The study calls for stronger government regulations, including marketing restrictions and taxes on UPF products, to combat their consumption.
In the US, it is estimated that about 70% of the food supply consists of ultra-processed foods, with a significant portion of children's and adults' diets comprising these items.
A recent study indicates that a high intake of ultra-processed foods (UPF) is associated with an increased risk of early death, particularly in countries like the UK and the US.
Lead investigator Dr. Eduardo Augusto Fernandes Nilson highlights that UPFs pose significant health risks due to their high levels of sodium, trans fats, sugars, and artificial additives.
Experts emphasize that UPFs are high in calories and low in nutrients, contributing to chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and certain cancers.
Summary based on 19 sources
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Sources

The Guardian • Apr 28, 2025
Ultra-processed food increases risk of early death, international study finds
BBC News • Apr 28, 2025
Ultra-processed foods may be linked to early death
Daily Mail • Apr 28, 2025
Ultra-processed foods are killing 1,000s of middle-aged Brits, study finds
Healthline Media • Apr 28, 2025
Ultra-Processed Foods Tied to More Than 124,000 Preventable Deaths in U.S.