The Rise of Ultra-Processed Foods

Ultra-processed foods have become prevalent due to reasons such as extended shelf life and convenience. These foods often lack nourishing value and increase the risk of obesity. Brazil coined the term 'ultra-processed food' to describe the wide category of highly processed products, which include biscuits, breads, ice cream, and sodas. About 60% of the average diet in countries like the UK, USA, Canada, and Australia consists of ultra-processed foods. Surprisingly, many food products marketed as healthy, such as low-salt, low-fat, or low-sugar options, also fit the ultra-processed definition, containing additives like emulsifiers and high fructose corn syrup.