Recent research indicates that consuming large amounts of ultra-processed foods can significantly increase the risk of various health problems, including the likelihood of death. Researchers from China, Singapore, South Korea, and India analyzed data from nearly 9 million individuals. They discovered that those who consumed more ultra-processed foods faced higher risks for health conditions like cancer, obesity, diabetes, and overall mortality. Even minor increases in the intake of such foods heightened the risk of certain ailments. This study appeared in the Family Medicine and Community Health journal on September 22.
Ultra-processed foods contain additives like chemical preservatives, emulsifiers such as hydrogenated oils, sweetening agents like high fructose corn syrup, and synthetic colors and flavors. These are not typical kitchen ingredients and are incorporated through extensive processing. Examples include sodas, prepackaged snacks like chips and cookies, instant meals, lunch meats, and hot dogs.
Health Conditions Linked To Higher Ultra-Processed Food Consumption
The researchers assessed 51 prospective cohort studies conducted across the Americas, Europe, Asia, and Oceania, involving 8,819,894 participants. They found that increased consumption of ultra-processed foods correlated with a higher risk of several health conditions:
- Cardiovascular events: 24% higher risk
- Cancer: 12% higher risk
- Obesity or overweight: 23% higher risk
- Metabolic syndrome or diabetes: 24% higher risk
- Depression or anxiety: 27% higher risk
- Digestive diseases: 31% higher risk
- Death from any cause: 18% higher risk
Just 100 Grams A Day More Could Influence Risk
The study further explored changes in health risks related to varying intake levels. An increase of 100 grams daily led to:
- Cardiovascular events: 14% higher risk
- High blood pressure: 11% higher risk
- Cancer: 4% higher risk
- Death from any cause: 3% higher risk
- Metabolic syndrome or diabetes: 2% higher risk
Additionally, a 10% rise in energy intake from these foods was linked to a 16% increase in metabolic syndrome or diabetes risk. The researchers, however, noted that although there were associations between ultra-processed food consumption and these health risks, they did not establish a direct causal link.
Experts Weigh In
Nutrition expert Maya Vadiveloo commented that over 50% of caloric intake for many comes from ultra-processed foods. She noted that high consumption of these less nutritious foods often correlates with dietary patterns that elevate chronic disease risk. Vadiveloo highlighted consistency with previous studies that found adverse associations between ultra-processed foods and health outcomes, although some studies had low evidence certainty. Dr. Fang Fang Zhang added caution regarding cancer findings, emphasizing variability across studies and incomplete evidence.
Despite significant research on the links between ultra-processed foods and negative health outcomes, some studies, like one in Advances in Nutrition, questioned the consistency of these associations.
How Ultra-Processed Foods Could Impact Health
While specific impacts remain uncertain, theories suggest diets high in ultra-processed foods are linked to chronic inflammation, increased contaminant intake, and imbalanced macronutrient content. These foods are known for their palatability and potential to cause blood sugar fluctuations. Professor Kristina Petersen noted that such diets might prevent key nutrient intake and affect the gut microbiome.
Dalia Perelman stated that while uncertainties exist, strong evidence supports diets rich in minimally processed, nutrient-dense foods like vegetables and whole grains. She emphasized the need for more research to identify specific factors driving the association between ultra-processed foods and health risks.
What Needs To Happen Next?
More research is crucial to understanding the health impacts of ultra-processed foods. Kristina Petersen called for a clear definition of ultra-processed foods to aid in reducing related diseases. Maya Vadiveloo suggested making healthier, nutrient-dense foods more accessible and affordable. She supports policies for clear labeling to guide consumer choices better.
Zhang also advocated for straightforward packaging labels to aid consumer understanding, pointing out that distinguishing ultra-processed foods can be challenging in a complex food environment. Dalia Perelman proposed that instead of eliminating such foods, efforts should focus on making healthy options more practical for consumers.
Reference: Liu X, Luo S, Zeng Y, Peng N, Chen X, Tian J, et al. (2026) Ultra-processed food consumption and risk of multiple chronic diseases among 8,819,894 adults from 51 prospective cohorts: a dose-response meta-analysis. Family Medicine and Community Health. DOI: [10.1136/fmch-2026-003925](https://doi.org/10.1136/fmch-2026-003925).
For editorial contact at Newsweek, reach Marc Vargas and Emma Lee-Sang.
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