Processed foods (link between food and health)

Introduction

Ultra-processed foods are

"...industrial formulations mostly composed of chemically modified substances extracted from foods, with emulsifiers and other additives, like non-sugar sweeteners and colouring, to enhance taste, texture, periods and durability, with minimal to no inclusion of whole foods..."

Jill Margo, 2024

These foods include

"...Ready-to-eat meals, packaged baked goods, sugary cereals, instant noodles, fast foods and even products such as mashed potatoes or scrambled legs in packets that need rehydration..."

Melissa Lane as quoted by Jill Margo, 2024

Impacts of consumption of ultra-processed foods

Recent research has shown an increased consumption of ultra-processed foods will increase the risk of around 30 damaging health conditions.

"...higher ultra- processed food intake was associated with a 50% increase in risk of cardiovascular disease-related death......also linked to a 48-53% higher risk of anxiety and common mental disorders, and a 12% greater risk of Type II diabetes......a 21% greater risk of death from any cause and that these foods can adversely affect sleep and increase the risk of depression......also limited evidence of a link with asthma, gastrointestinal health and some cancers..."

Jill Margo, 2024

People to reduce their consumption of ultra-processed foods; current consumption levels range from 58% in the USA; to 10% in Italy. In Australia it is 42%.