Top Ultra-Processed Food Researchers Call for Sweeping Policy Change

A special issue of the American Journal of Public Health is urging policymakers to take a more active role in addressing ultra-processed foods, citing growing evidence linking them to obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and potentially dementia.

Researchers highlighted survey findings showing strong bipartisan support for measures such as pre-market safety testing of additives, warning labels, limits on artificial dyes, and reductions in sugar and salt.

The issue also explores the food industry’s role in shaping consumption patterns and argues that education alone is unlikely to significantly reduce intake. Researchers emphasized policy and regulatory approaches as key strategies for addressing diet-related chronic disease. Read more from STAT News here.