New Report links Ultra-Processed Foods to Health Crisis, Calls for Policy Intervention

London, UK – November 8, 2023 – A newly published study in the journal BMJ is sounding alarms about the pervasive impact of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) on public health, urging policymakers to implement measures to curb their consumption. The research, conducted by a team at University College London (UCL) and the University of Bristol, highlights the significant health risks associated with diets high in UPFs and proposes a multi-pronged approach to address the issue.

The study builds on growing evidence linking UPFs – foods typically high in sugar, fat, and salt, and containing artificial additives – to a range of health problems including obesity, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and even certain cancers. Researchers analyzed dietary data from over 10,000 adults in the UK, comparing the health outcomes of those consuming predominantly minimally processed foods versus those with diets heavily reliant on UPFs.

the team recommended that policymakers utilize warning labels, restrictions on marketing of UPFs (particularly targeting children), progressive taxation on these products, and subsidies to make healthier, whole foods more affordable and accessible to all socioeconomic groups. This echoes calls from public health organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) who have also begun to address the growing concern over UPF consumption globally.

Dr. Adrian Brown, a co-author of the study from UCL’s Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, emphasized the impact of the current economic climate. “The cost-of-living crisis has significantly impacted people’s food choices. Healthy food is, on average, up to two times more expensive than unhealthy, ultra-processed alternatives,” he stated. Data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows that the price of fresh fruit and vegetables rose by 12.7% in the year to October 2023, while processed foods saw a smaller increase of 8.2%.

Rob Percival, head of food policy at the Soil Association, criticized existing UK government guidelines. “For decades, the UK government’s ‘healthy eating’ guidelines have neglected the crucial distinction between whole foods and ultra-processed products, incorrectly assuming they deliver the same health outcomes. We now know this to be demonstrably false,” he said. The Soil Association advocates for a shift towards agroecological farming practices to increase the availability of affordable, healthy food.

A spokesperson for the Department of Health and Social Care acknowledged the concerns, stating that the government has commissioned research to further understand the health impacts of UPFs and remains “committed to tackling obesity and building a healthier Britain.” The commissioned research, led by the Food Standards Agency (FSA), is expected to be published in early 2024.

Understanding the Dietary Divide: Minimally Processed vs. Ultra-Processed

The study highlights the stark contrast between minimally processed and ultra-processed diets. Here’s a comparison of typical meals:

  • Minimally Processed
    • Breakfast: Cinnamon and apple overnight oats
    • Lunch: Mexican chicken with salad and flatbread
    • Dinner: Home-cooked cottage pie with green beans and corn
  • Ultra Processed
    • Breakfast: Oat and fruit breakfast bar
    • Lunch: Meal deal-style packaged chicken tikka wrap
    • Dinner: Ready-made cottage pie with greens and corn

Defining ultra-Processed Foods: UPFs are typically industrial formulations made entirely or mostly from substances derived from foods (oils, fats, sugars, starch, and proteins) and additives. They often contain little to no whole foods. Examples include sugary drinks, packaged snacks, processed meats, and instant noodles.

Long-Term Implications: The increasing prevalence of UPFs in the modern diet represents a significant public health challenge. Experts warn that without proactive policy interventions, the burden of diet-related diseases will continue to rise, straining healthcare systems and impacting quality of life.