Thousands of deaths in the UK each year may be linked to the high consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs), according to a new analysis highlighting serious public health concerns.
Researchers found that in 2018-19, approximately 17,781 premature deaths could be attributed to diets heavy in UPFs, including processed meats, mass-produced bread, ice cream, crisps, breakfast cereals, ready meals, and fizzy drinks. These foods often contain high levels of saturated fats, salt, sugar, and additives such as preservatives, emulsifiers, and artificial colours, leaving less room for healthier, more nutritious options.
Health Risks Associated with Ultra-Processed Foods
Ultra-processed foods have long been associated with a range of health problems, including obesity, heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. The new study, published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, further suggests that each 10% increase in UPF consumption raises the risk of death from all causes by 3%.
Despite the growing evidence, some experts caution that more research is needed to fully understand why UPFs are linked to poor health outcomes and to identify the underlying mechanisms involved.
UK Among Highest Consumers of UPFs
The analysis, which examined data from eight countries, revealed that UPFs account for 53% of energy intake in the UK—the second-highest level after the United States at 55%. In contrast, countries with lower UPF consumption, such as Colombia, saw much lower rates of premature deaths linked to these foods, at just 4%.
In the UK and the US, premature deaths linked to UPF consumption accounted for 14% of total deaths, highlighting a worrying trend in developed nations.
Calls for Government Action
Lead researcher Eduardo Nilson, from Brazil’s Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, called for governments to introduce dietary guidelines aimed specifically at reducing UPF intake.
Nerys Astbury, associate professor at the University of Oxford, echoed the concerns, stating that while it is known diets high in fat, sugar, and calories harm health, establishing a direct causal link between UPFs and specific diseases will require further study.
The findings are expected to increase pressure on health policymakers to issue stronger public health warnings and promote more natural, whole-food diets to counteract the rising tide of diet-related illnesses.
