Cancer, heart and lung conditions, premature death... Ultra-processed food is linked to 32 harmful health outcomes.
These types of foods are usually high in sugar, fat and salt, and are low in vitamins, protein and fiber. However, it can account for up to 58% of total daily energy intake in some rich countries and has increased rapidly in many low- and middle-income nations in recent decades. The BMJ report highlights the need to adopt measures that reduce dietary exposure to these products.