Ultra-processed foods are replacing healthy diets “around the globe” despite the health risks they pose and should be sold with warnings similar to those on tobacco packets, experts say, The Guardian reports.
“Ultra-processed foods have become increasingly dominant in global diets, despite the health risk they pose, in that they may increase the risk of multiple chronic diseases,” said Professor Carlos Monteiro from the University of Sao Paulo.
“Ultra-processed foods are replacing healthier, less processed foods all over the world and causing quality of life to deteriorate due to their harmful attributes. Together, these foods are driving an obesity pandemic.” he added.
The warning comes as consumption of ultra-processed foods has risen rapidly globally, particularly when it comes to cereals, protein bars, fizzy drinks and fast food.
Ultra-processed foods are taking over globally
In the US and UK, over half of a typical diet now contains such foods. For some, especially younger people, a diet based on 80% ultra-processed foods is common.
In February, researchers found in a large study that ultra-processed foods are directly linked to no fewer than 32 risk factors, including susceptibility to heart disease, cancer, diabetes, mental health problems and death premature.
Ultra-processed foods, as dangerous as tobacco
Professor Monteiro believes, however, that these foods have begun to affect our lives so much that simple studies are no longer enough to warn the public.
“We need public health campaigns like those for tobacco. Advertisements for ultra-processed foods should be banned, or restricted, and front-of-pack warnings similar to those on cigarette packs”added the Brazilian professor.
He said that such a measure is necessary because such foods are as harmful and dangerous as tobacco.
“Both tobacco and ultra-processed foods cause many serious illnesses and premature deaths. Both are produced by transnational corporations, which invest the enormous profits made from their addictive products in aggressive marketing strategies and anti-regulatory campaigns.”the specialist also transmitted.
