The Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) industry is under fire and it’s not just concerned parents or food scientists who are leading the attack.
According to a new poll, over 75% of frustrated Republicans, Democrats and Independents are now calling for mandatory “large warning labels” on all packages of ultra processed foods.
In addition, up to 70% of Americans want companies banned from advertising ultra processed foods on children’s television.
The survey published this week by the American Journal of Public Health (AJPH), also states that up to 87% want government safety testing for all laboratory-made chemicals long before they can be used in any food product
“Families are asking important questions about how food is made, marketed and regulated and how they can be a part of change,” said the survey’s senior author Ashley Gearhardt, a professor of psychology at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.
What are ultra-processed foods?
Ultra-processed foods include products such as soda, chips, packaged snacks, chicken nuggets, ice cream, and many ready-to-eat meals.
According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, these foods often contain ingredients almost never used in home kitchens, including preservatives, emulsifiers, artificial colors, flavor enhancers, and added sugars, fats, and salt designed to make foods highly appealing.
Research Confirms Health Risks of UPFs
Research links diets high in ultra-processed foods to serious health risks. Studies show that just one serving a day, could be associated with a 50% higher risk of cardiovascular disease-related death.
In the past, research has also linked high consumption of ultra-processed foods to diseases such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and Alzheimer’s.
Yet it’s hard to avoid ultra processed foods, as nearly 70% of foods on US grocery store shelves are highly processed.
Addiction Not Will-Power
Scientists are also looking to see if ultra-processed foods are addictive.
Researchers point to carefully engineered combinations of sugar, fat, salt, and flavorings that can encourage overeating and make these products hard to resist.
In a new study published this week by the AJPH, more than 12% of older adults and children are clinically addicted to ultra-processed foods.
“Surveys show the majority of Americans don’t trust these big ultra processed food companies and believe they are creating addictive products,” Gearhardt said. “They also believe these companies are targeting children so they will grow up addicted to these unhealthy foods.”
The UPF industry has said for decades that individual willpower is the only way to “eat just one.” Americans accepted that message for years but are now learning that these foods may be designed to be addictive.
Fed Up -A Campaign to Fight
Gearhardt and a group of leading researchers have launched a public awareness campaign for Americans they call “Fed UP!” The website will provide consumers with explainers, research summaries, videos, social media content and practical resources to both understand ultra processed foods and advocate for healthier food. All partners and contributors cannot have any ties to the food manufacturers or special interests.
What can the average person do?
Experts recommend focusing on small, realistic changes rather than attempting a complete diet overhaul.
- Read ingredient labels and choose foods with ingredients that are easy to recognize and fewer additives.
- Replace sugary beverages with water, sparkling water, or unsweetened tea.
- Choose fresh fruit, vegetables, nuts, beans, whole grains, and lean proteins more often.
- Cook simple meals at home to reduce highly processed convenience foods.
Most importantly, don’t expect perfection to come right away. Small changes made consistently can add up to better overall health and well-being.
More Resources:
- Healthy Eating Habits for Kids 2-8
- Tips to Support Healthy Eating for Kids and Teens
- The Beginner’s Guide to Ditching Ultra Processed Foods
Thank you, You will be automatically subscribed to the our newsletter.