Ultra-Processed Foods Linked to Over 124,000 Avoidable Deaths Annually in United States
Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) significantly increase mortality risk, according to a comprehensive global study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine. For every 10% increase in UPF consumption, all-cause mortality risk rises by 2.7%.
Person holding processed fast food burger
A 2024 review of 9.8 million participants linked UPFs to 32 adverse health outcomes, including:
- Depression
- Obesity
- Cardiovascular disease
- Certain cancers
- Diabetes
Key Study Findings:
- UPF consumption varies significantly by country:
- Colombia and Brazil: Under 20% of total energy intake
- Chile and Mexico: 20-30%
- Australia: 37.5%
- Canada: 43.7%
- US and UK: Over 50%
Annual Preventable Deaths:
- US: 124,000+ deaths
- UK: 18,000+ deaths
What Makes UPFs Harmful:
- High in calories, sugar, salt, and fat
- Low in essential nutrients
- Stripped of natural fiber and minerals
- Contain artificial additives (colorants, flavors, sweeteners, emulsifiers)
- Lead to faster digestion and absorption
- Contribute to insulin resistance
Current Challenges:
- 73% of US food supply consists of UPFs
- Convenience drives consumer choices
- Misleading food labeling
- Cost barriers to healthier alternatives
- Difficulty changing dietary habits
Health experts recommend choosing whole foods instead:
- Whole grains
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Lean proteins
- Nuts
- Dairy products
The study concludes that reducing UPF consumption should be a global public health priority, particularly in countries where consumption continues to rise.