Canada Study Links Ultra-Processed Foods to Up to 38% of Cardiovascular Deaths

Researchers from Canada analyzed national dietary surveys and disease statistics to model the impact of ultra‑processed food consumption on heart disease and stroke. The study, published in The American Journal of Preventive Medicine and presented at the International Congress on Obesity 2026, found that ultra‑processed items account for roughly 23%‑38% of cardiovascular deaths among Canadian adults.

The model estimates that halving intake of ultra‑processed foods could prevent thousands of deaths and tens of thousands of new cardiovascular cases each year, as well as preserve many years of healthy life. Authors Dr. Virginie Hamel and Dr. Jean‑Claude Moubarac argue that education alone is insufficient and call for government actions such as front‑of‑package warning labels and marketing restrictions.