UPDATE: A groundbreaking new report from The Lancet confirms an alarming global rise in ultra-processed foods (UPFs), signaling an urgent health crisis that demands immediate action. Released on November 24, 2025, this comprehensive study by 43 international experts reveals strong links between UPF consumption and escalating chronic health problems worldwide.
Experts warn that the prevalence of UPFs is dramatically reshaping dietary patterns, with profound implications for public health. According to the report, UPF consumption has soared in various countries, with dietary energy from UPFs tripling in Spain and China over the past three decades, and increasing from 10% to 23% in Mexico and Brazil during the last forty years. Alarmingly, consumption levels in the USA and UK have remained above 50% for two decades, with slight increases noted.
Professor Carlos Monteiro, a leading researcher from the University of São Paulo, emphasizes the urgency of the situation: “The growing consumption of ultra-processed foods is reshaping diets worldwide, displacing fresh and minimally processed foods.” He underscores that the shift is driven by powerful corporations that profit from UPFs while undermining public health initiatives.
The report highlights a pressing need for decisive governmental action to counter corporate influence. Professor Camila Corvalan from the University of Chile insists, “We must introduce bold, coordinated policy actions, including front-of-package labeling for UPFs and marketing restrictions, particularly for children.”
In response to the escalating health crisis, Dr. Phillip Baker from the University of Sydney calls for a global public health movement akin to past efforts against tobacco. He stresses the necessity of safeguarding policy-making from corporate lobbying and promoting nutritious food systems.
The data is stark: a systematic review of 104 long-term studies found that 92 showed increased risks for at least one chronic disease linked to high UPF consumption. This includes significant associations with obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and even premature death.
The need for immediate policy solutions is clear. The second paper in the series outlines proactive steps to curb UPF production and marketing, holding corporations accountable for promoting unhealthy diets. Among the recommendations is a call for front-of-package labeling that highlights harmful ingredients, alongside stronger marketing restrictions.
Countries like Brazil have already begun implementing successful reforms. Their national school feeding program aims to remove most UPFs, mandating that 90% of school food be fresh or minimally processed by 2026.
However, the third paper reveals that the surge in UPF consumption is not merely a result of individual choices but largely driven by corporate power. With global sales of UPFs reaching a staggering $1.9 trillion, these companies employ extensive marketing strategies to promote their products while resisting regulations.
Professor Simon Barquera, from Mexico’s National Institute of Public Health, states, “Powerful corporations are behind the global rise of ultra-processed foods.” He warns that their influence extends to shaping public opinion and lobbying against effective health policies.
The authors of the report advocate for a unified global response to protect public health from corporate interests. Professor Karen Hoffman from the University of the Witwatersrand asserts, “We need a bold, coordinated global response now to curb the power of UPF corporations.”
As the evidence mounts, the time for action is now. The health of millions is at stake as ultra-processed foods increasingly dominate diets worldwide. Governments, communities, and individuals must unite to promote healthier eating options and combat the growing crisis linked to UPF consumption.
With the stakes higher than ever, this urgent health warning cannot be ignored. The message is clear: immediate action is essential to safeguard public health and foster a future where nutritious food is accessible to all.
