Studies Link Ultra-Processed Foods to Public Health Crisis on Par with Tobacco, Often Made by Same Companies
By
Dr. Céline Gounder
An everything bagel for the brain. Substantive, layered, well-seasoned.
Summary
A special issue of the American Journal of Public Health presents 17 studies, editorials, and reviews arguing that ultra-processed foods represent a public health crisis comparable to tobacco. The research reveals that many of these products were developed by the same companies (like Philip Morris) using similar techniques used for cigarettes. Key findings include: ultra-processed foods hijack brain circuits similar to addictive drugs, a 58% higher dementia risk linked to these foods, and that 80% of Americans want government intervention. A public education campaign called Fed UP is launching to bring this science to consumers, with no food industry funding involved.
Key quotes
· 5 pulledThe American Journal of Public Health published a special issue today with 17 studies, editorials, and reviews on ultra-processed foods.
Together, they build a case that these products are a public health crisis on the same scale as tobacco.
A group of leading researchers is also launching a public education campaign called Fed UP to bring the science directly to consumers.
Ultra-processed foods hijack the same brain circuits as addictive drugs.
A new study links them to a 58% higher dementia risk.
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