Your chance of an early death rises with every bite of ultraprocessed food, study says

Ultra-Processed Foods Increase Risk Of Early Death

Key Takeaways

Ultra-processed foods responsible for 18,000 early deaths in Britain a year - the popular snacks increasing your risk

Ultra-processed foods are contributing to approximately 18,000 premature deaths annually among middle-aged Britons, according to a study.These foods, including ready meals and fizzy drinks, now make up 54 per cent of the average British daily calorie intake.Researchers analysed diets across eight countries to estimate deaths linked to foods such as ready meals, confectionery and processed meat.The study, published in the American Journal of Prev…

Ultra-processed foods may cause 18,000 early deaths a year

Ultra-processed foods may be responsible for thousands of deaths a year

Thousands of UK deaths could be linked to ultra-processed foods

A new study in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine called on governments to issue dietary recommendations aimed at cutting consumption.

Are Ultra-Processed Foods Shortening Your Life? Study Reveals Startling Impact

New research reveals a troubling connection between high consumption of ultra-processed foods and an increased risk of premature death.

Ultra-processed foods make up nearly half of US grocery purchases, raising public health concerns

A 2025 study of nearly 60,000 US households found that almost half of grocery purchases were ultra-processed foods (UPFs), with major disparities based on income, education, and race. Non-Hispanic white households led in UPF purchases, especially in beverages, reversing earlier trends.