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Global study links ultraprocessed foods to higher mortality and disease
An international consortium of scientists from 93 countries published a warning in The Lancet that the rapid rise of ultraprocessed foods constitutes a global health emergency. In Spain, the share of calories from such products has jumped from 11 % three decades ago to 32 %, one of the fastest increases worldwide. The analysis links high consumption of ultraprocessed foods to an 18 % increase in premature mortality, a 33 % rise in abdominal obesity, a 23 % higher risk of depression, and heightened incidences of chronic conditions such as Crohn’s disease. Additional concerns include excess salt and sugar, micro‑plastic contamination, and additives that disrupt gut microbiota. The report notes that food giants, generating about $1.9 trillion in annual revenue, employ tactics similar to the tobacco industry—denying harm, promoting self‑regulation, and targeting children—to protect profits and influence policy.
The study calls for stronger regulation, clearer labelling, and public education to curb the spread of ultraprocessed products and mitigate their health impacts.