What was this study about?
This study looked at whether eating a lot of ultra-processed foods—like packaged snacks, ready meals, soft drinks, and fast food—increases the risk of dying from any cause. These types of foods are often high in sugar, fat, salt, and artificial additives, and low in nutrients.
How did the researchers study this?
The scientists analyzed data from 18 large studies that followed over 1.1 million people for up to 34 years. They used a method called meta-analysis to combine all the data and look for patterns. They focused on how much ultra-processed food people ate and how it related to the number of deaths over time.
What did they find?
People who ate the most ultra-processed food had a 15% higher risk of dying compared to those who ate the least. Even a small increase—just 10% more ultra-processed food in someone’s diet—was linked to a 10% higher risk of death. The more of these foods people ate, the greater the risk—showing a clear upward trend.
Was this true for everyone?
Yes, the link between ultra-processed food and higher death risk was seen across different countries, ages, and sexes. Interestingly, men appeared to be slightly more affected than women.
Why might these foods be harmful?
The study suggests several reasons:
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They’re often full of unhealthy fats, sugars, and salt, which can lead to heart problems and other diseases.
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They contain artificial ingredients that might harm gut bacteria and increase inflammation.
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People who eat more ultra-processed food may also have other unhealthy habits, like smoking or not exercising.
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These foods may lead to overeating because they are engineered to be very tasty and easy to consume quickly.
What does this mean for me?
Eating fewer ultra-processed foods and choosing more whole or minimally processed foods—like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and home-cooked meals—could help you live longer. The authors recommend that public health policies and nutrition guidelines worldwide encourage reducing intake of ultra-processed foods.