Early deaths linked to ultraprocessed foods

The risk of preventable premature mortality could be associated with higher ultraprocessed food consumption.

In a study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, investigators used national health and dietary data to analyze the proportion of premature deaths attributed to high ultraprocessed food consumption among more than 240,000 individuals aged 30 to 69 years across eight countries.

The countries with the highest ultraprocessed food intake exhibited the greatest premature mortality burdens compared with the countries with the lowest intake. The investigators discovered that each 10% increase in the proportion of ultraprocessed foods consumed as part of the daily diet resulted in nearly a 3% increase in the risk of all-cause mortality.

The findings illuminated the public health issues faced in countries where high proportions of the daily diet include ultraprocessed foods. The investigators hope the results of their study can lead to the introduction of policies to improve food systems and encourage individuals to consume minimally processed foods.

Read more: American Journal of Preventive Medicine

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