As more people around the world eat ultra-processed foods (UPFs) instead of
home-cooked meals, new research warns that health risks are rising. Experts
from around the world, writing in a three-part series in The Lancet, are urging
governments to take action to protect people from the health problems linked to
these foods.
A team of 43 international experts, including researchers from the University
of Melbourne, Deakin University, and the University of Sydney, worked together
on this important study.
Why ultra-processed foods are a concern
Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) include sugary drinks, packaged snacks, ready-to-eat
meals, and sweets. These foods are made in factories for convenience and taste.
They usually contain high amounts of sugar, unhealthy fats, salt, and additives,
and have little or no real whole food.