Ultra-processed Food Should Be Banned and Stripped of Health Claims, Says Expert
Introduction
Last week, renowned author and associate professor Dr Chris van Tulleken addressed the House of Lords select committee on food, diet, and obesity, emphasizing the urgent need to ban and strip health claims from ‘harmful’ junk food, including popular cereals like Coco Pops.
Health Risks and Tactics
Dr van Tulleken drew attention to the striking parallel between the mass-produced food industry and big tobacco, asserting that the former sells addictive products with potential health hazards. In his book, Dr van Tulleken delves into the detrimental effects of junk food, such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. He exposes the ruthless tactics employed by food companies to lure unsuspecting consumers.
According to Dr van Tulleken, “Poor diet has overtaken tobacco as the leading cause of death globally — and poor diet means an ultra-processed diet.”
Processed food, while not addictive in the same manner as alcohol or drugs, cleverly triggers the brain’s reward pathways, making it challenging to resist. Notably, manufacturers exploit our neurological responses to boost product sales by keeping consumers hooked through reward-based impulses.
The Health Effects
Image: Health risks associated with poor diet, according to Dr Chris van Tulleken
Dr van Tulleken highlights the shocking health consequences of consuming ultra-processed food, ranging from physical ailments to mental health problems. A recent Harvard study revealed that consuming ultra-processed food increases the risk of depression. Additionally, anxiety and cognitive decline have also been associated with these types of diets. Scientists attribute these harmful effects to the high levels of carbohydrates, saturated fats, and energy, combined with low levels of protein and fiber in these food products. Furthermore, the additives used to enhance taste and extend shelf life contribute to bodily inflammation, further risking mental and physical well-being. Ultra-processed food lacks essential micronutrients required for the proper functioning of the body, rendering it nutritionally inadequate.
Marketing and Need for Regulations
Whilst acknowledging personal autonomy in making lifestyle choices, Dr van Tulleken highlights the aggressive marketing strategies aimed at children and budget-constrained families, who may be unaware of the detrimental health effects of these products. Implementing warning labels and raising awareness of the potential health dangers should be the minimum requirement for companies that sell these products.
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