Ultra-processed food increases risk of early death, international study finds
Consuming large amounts of ultra-processed food (UPF) increases the risk of an early death, according to a international study that has reignited calls for a crackdown on UPF.
Each 10% extra intake of UPF, such as bread, cakes and ready meals, increases someone's risk of dying before they reach 75 by 3%, according to research in countries including the US and England.
UPF is so damaging to health that it is implicated in as many as one in seven of all premature deaths that occur in some countries, according to a paper in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine.
They are associated with 124,107 early deaths in the US a year and 17,781 deaths every year in England, the review of dietary and mortality data from eight countries found.
Eduardo Augusto Fernandes Nilson, the lead investigator of the study, from the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation in Brazil, said that additives such as sweeteners and flavourings harm health not just UPFs' high levels of fat, salt and sugar.
The authors found 'a linear dose-response association between the ultraprocessed food consumption and all-cause mortality' when they examined official surveys previously undertaken in the UK and US, as well as Australia, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Chile and Mexico.
While 4%, 5% and 6% of premature deaths in Colombia, Brazil and Chile respectively are 'attributable to UPF consumption', the equivalent percentage is 10.9% in Canada, 13.7% in the US and 13.8% in England – the highest proportion among the eight countries.
'Premature deaths attributable to consumptions of ultraprocessed foods increase significantly according to their share in individuals' total energy intake. A high amount of UPF intake can significantly affect health,' the researchers concluded.
Death rates are highest in the countries where the population gets the largest amounts of total energy from eating UPF.
In England that is 53.4%, according to the National Diet and Nutrition Survey undertaken in 2018-19. But it is even higher in the US – 54.5%.
'We first estimated a linear association between the dietary share of UPFs and all-cause mortality, so that each 10% increase in the participation of UPFs in the diet increases the risk of death from all causes by 3%,' said Nilson.
'UPFs affect health beyond the individual impact of high content of critical nutrients – sodium, trans fats and sugar – because of the changes in the foods during industrial processing and the use of artificial ingredients, including colourants, artificial flavours and sweeteners, emulsifiers and many other additives and processing aids, so assessing deaths from all causes associated with UPF consumption allows an overall estimate of the effect of industrial food processing on health.'
While the burden of ill-health from UPF is highest in high-income countries, it is growing in low- and middle-income nations, added Nilson.
The authors urged governments worldwide to introduce bold measures to tackle UPF, including tighter regulation of food marketing and the sale of food in schools and workplaces, and also taxes on UPF products to reduce sales.
The findings add to the growing body of evidence linking UPF to a higher risk of both specific illnesses, such as cancer and heart disease, and a increased risk overall of dying before 75. However, they found an association between UPF and early death, not that one definitely causes the other.
For example, US research published last year in the BMJ found that people who consume the most UPF have a 4% higher risk of death overall and a 9% greater risk of dying from something other than cancer or heart disease. It identified processed meat, sugar and ultra-processed breakfast foods, such as cereals, as the unhealthiest UPF products.
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: 'We have already taken action to end the targeting of junk food adverts to children, across TV and online, and we have handed local authorities stronger powers to block applications for new takeaways near schools.
'We are also commissioning research to improve the evidence on the health impacts of ultra-processed foods. Through our Plan for Change, we will shift the focus from sickness to prevention, reducing the burden of obesity on public services and the NHS.'
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
NBC News
2 days ago
- NBC News
Should you be wearing a UPF Sun hat? Here's why dermatologists say yes
People often underestimate the importance of a hat when spending time outdoors. Yes, hats do a great job of keeping sunlight out of your eyes and making it easier to see, but some of them can also help protect your skin, similar to sunscreen. This is why dermatologists recommend wearing clothing with Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF). 'Topical SPF is a great tool, but it also isn't perfect. Chemical sunscreens must be fully absorbed to work, about 30 minutes after application,' says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Dendy Engelman. 'For physical [mineral] sunscreen, if you do not have consistent application or an area rubs off, then you are not adequately protected.' UPF clothing, including hats, is the first line of defense against ultraviolet (UV) radiation, especially for those with sensitive skin. But what exactly is UPF? We consulted experts to understand how UPF works and used their guidance to compile the best UPF hats to shop for. What is the UPF rating? 'UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor. It shows how well a fabric protects you from UV rays,' according to Dr. Mohiba Tareen, a board-certified dermatologist at Tareen Dermatology. 'These are the rays that can cause skin aging (UVA) and burning (UVB). A UPF rating tells you how much UV radiation can get through the fabric.' As an example, if a hat has a UPF 50 rating, that means that 1/50th (2%) of UV rays pass through, so it blocks 98%.Here's a quick breakdown to determine how protective UPF ratings are: How we picked the best UPF hats When shopping for a UPF sun-protective hat, our experts stress the importance of keeping the following key factors in mind: UPF rating: Although the Skin Cancer Foundation allows a minimum of UPF 30, the most optimal level of protection is 50+, says Tareen. A UPF rating of 30 means the fabric allows 1/30th, or about 3%, of UV radiation to pass through. A garment rated UPF 50 permits only 1/50th, or about 2% of UV transmission. Any fabric that permits less than 2% is labeled UPF 50+. Weave density: The denser the fabric, the better it blocks the rays. For a quick visual check, Dr. Tareen recommends holding the hat up to the sunlight to gauge its transparency. Color: 'The more intense the hue, the better the protection,' according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Dark or bright colors, including red, black and navy blue, absorb more UV rays than lighter colors, like whites and pastels. Material: Different types of material matter as well, according to our experts. For instance, unbleached cotton, rayon, flax and hemp all consist of natural fibers that absorb UV rays, while shiny polyester, nylon or lightweight satin silks deflect the rays and are considered more protective. In addition, these latter materials are quick-drying, which is another plus, as a study conducted by the National Center for Biotechnology Information found that UV protection appears to be less effective when the material is wet. Coverage: The best sun-protective hats should have a minimum 3-inch brim around the circumference or a minimum 3-inch bill with a permanently attached drape to cover the neck and ears, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. For baby and toddler hats, the foundation recommends a 2½-inch brim. The best UPF hats to shop in 2025 Below, we rounded up a list of the best UPF hats for men, women, kids and babies that meet the experts' criteria. All provide optimum coverage, have a UPF rating of 50 or more and have the Skin Cancer Foundation's Seal of Recommendation. Many of them also have at least a 4-star average rating from 500 reviews or more on Amazon or at least 100 reviews at a retailer. This unisex wide-brimmed safari hat has UPF 50+ protection to block out 98% of the sun's rays, according to the brand. It has breathable mesh to keep you sweat-free and also includes an adjustable chin strap to keep it in place during windy days. This option also has a 4.5-star average rating from 27,768 reviews on Amazon. This brimmed fishing hat is made from a fast-drying, textured nylon that keeps you cool by pulling moisture to the fabric's surface to keep sweat at bay, according to the brand. It has an adjustable chin strap and toggle for a secure fit during windy days on the water, along with vented sides for increased breathability. The hat is one size fits all, and comes in 32 different colors. Best UPF hat for women This stylish braided straw fedora has UPF 50+ protection, along with a removable drawstring and an adjustable built-in strap to ensure the right fit. Coolibar Etta Shapeable Sun Catcher Hat $49.50 $55.00 Amazon Now 10% off $55.00 Coolibar Coolibar boasts unanimous approval from our experts, and the brand is 'respected in gear quality and longevity, so it's a very safe purchase and one that should invoke confidence in the buyer,' says Minars. With UPF 50+ protection in a fabric that's both breathable as well as shapeable, this adjustable hat is a top pick. Tareen loves this high-end, stylish lightweight option that has the look of a fashionable straw hat without compromising the protection of UPF. Not only does this model come in seven different color options but it's also designed to guard skin from 95% of UVA and UVB rays, according to the brand. Best UPF hat with neck protection This protective sun hat from Sunday Afternoons, which has a 4.6-star average rating from 1,789 reviews at Amazon, has a brim made with foam to help maintain its shape and prevent it from flying away in the wind. The underside of the hat has a dark hue to help absorb reflective light and prevent glare, according to the brand. The inside also has a sweatband and the back of it is extra long to help protect your neck. Best baseball-style UPF hat If you prefer the look of a baseball cap but still want the protection of a UPF hat, this option, which has a 4.4-star average rating from 14,400 reviews on Amazon, is a good choice. It has an adjustable strap and absorbs water and sweat to maintain a cool temperature for up to 2 hours, according to the brand. It's made of a breathable material, ideal for athletic activity and is machine washable. Best fedora-style UPF hat Whether you're out golfing or spending time at the beach, this stylish UPF 50+ hat will help keep you protected from the sun. Recommended for when you want to travel light, according to the brand, the Coolibar Travel Fedora has an interior moisture-wicking sweatband and mesh grommets for increased airflow. It also has a 4.2-star average rating from 310 reviews at Coolibar. Another expert favorite, this UPF 50+ hat lets you stay protected during a day on the water. With a 4.4-star average rating from 389 reviews at Coolibar, this hat provides all-around protection, including around the ears. The convertible style allows you to add extra neck coverage when you want while a covered mesh panel and sweatband help keep you cool. Best mesh UPF hat This versatile, adventure-ready hat has a 4.4-star average rating from 4,233 reviews on Amazon. It's water-resistant, breathable, UPF 50+ and adjustable, according to the brand. With a wide brim, interior sweatband and flap to protect your head, neck and ears, this foldable hat is a solid choice for keeping you covered in the sun this summer and beyond. Best UPF hat for kids This full-coverage sports hat has a 4.6-star average rating from 229 reviews at Amazon and features an attached neck drape for additional protection as kids splash in the water and comes in a quick-drying UPF 50+ material that's both chlorine- and saltwater-resistant, according to the brand. Best bucket UPF hat for kids UV Skinz is one of Tareen's go-to brands, she says. As a mom of five, she appreciates both the safety and practicality of these UPF 50+ hats that she says actually stay on little heads. Plus, this versatile style has a sun flap to cover ears and necks but can also be tucked away. Best UPF hat for 9 to 18 months These Green Sprouts hats give full coverage from the sun to little necks and ears. They are also machine-washable, come in a UPF 50+ water-wicking material and feature an adjustable toggle to grow with the baby. This hat also has a 4.8-star average rating from 123 reviews at Green Sprouts. Best UPF hat for babies With reversible patterns, playful 3D animal details and a range of colors, there's an adorable option for every baby fashionista from Durio. The brand also makes the Summer Beach UPF Hat for toddlers and kids up to 8 years old. These lightweight sun hats block up to 98 percent of UVA and UVB rays with a UPF 50+ cotton and polyester fabric. Best reversible UPF hat for babies Given the amount of time Tareen's five kids have spent in these UPF 50+ sun protective hats, she knows that they aren't only safe but they also stay on with their simple tie. These water-friendly, reversible hats come in both boys and girls versions in an array of patterns and colors. How to shop for a UPF hat Although style is always top of mind — and there are plenty of great options out there to choose from — it's important to invest in a hat that fully protects you and is best for your needs. Fortunately, our experts say there are several key factors that will easily rule out the good from the not-so-good. SCF seal: A good place to start is looking for the Skin Cancer Foundation's Seal of Recommendation, according to our experts. Although the optimal rating is UPF 50+, the foundation grants this seal to fabrics that have a minimum of 30 UPF on the lightest shade in the product range. In addition, the clothing awarded this seal must also pass a number of tests by the American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists. Brim coverage: As noted above, our experts also said to invest in at least a 3-inch wide brim to shade the face, scalp, neck, shoulders and upper back. Kids' brims should be a minimum of 2.5 inches, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Water resistance: If you're planning to wear your hat at the beach or for any other water activity, look for a hat that will dry quickly if it gets wet, as studies have found that UPF hats are less effective when wet. Other key considerations when shopping for a quality UPF sun hat or any other type of UPF clothing, according to our experts, include opting for darker colors and tighter weaves, like polyester and nylon rather than cotton, flax and hemp, which absorb UV rays rather than deflect them. Meet our experts At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest. Why trust NBC Select?
Scottish Sun
6 days ago
- Scottish Sun
The 84p supplement that can ‘FLUSH out cancer-causing microplastics' revealed
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A CHEAP supplement made from oats could help flush deadly "forever chemicals" from your body, US scientists have found. These toxic substances - known as PFAS (polyfluoroalkyl substances) - are found in non-stick pans, food wrappers, plastic containers and even stain-proof carpets. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 2 Oat beta-glucan fibre could help flush deadly 'forever chemicals' from your body Credit: Getty They build up in the body over time and have been linked to cancer, infertility, liver damage and hormone disruption. But a new study by researchers at Boston University suggests a simple dietary fibre could help reduce PFAS levels in the blood. In the trial, 42 men were given 1g of oat beta-glucan fibre, a soluble oat bran fibre before every meal for four weeks. Another 30 took a placebo made from rice. The fibre is found naturally in oats, mushrooms and seeds. After a month, blood tests showed the fibre group had an 8 per cent drop in two of the most dangerous forms of PFAS: PFOA and PFOS, both linked to cancer and hormone disruption. Scientists believe the fibre works by binding to bile in the gut, which PFAS attach to, and helping excrete it all through poo, rather than letting it seep into the bloodstream. The study, published in Environmental Health, in March 2025, is the first real evidence that something as simple as oat fibre could help clear out chemicals once thought to stay in the body for decades. But PFAS take years to break down, so longer studies are needed to confirm how effective fibre is in the long term. Experts also warned not all fibre works the same - beta-glucan is the key type used in the trial. Previous research has shown that the fibre can also support heart health by lowering cholesterol. What are PFAS? Like other forms of fibre it it also helps ease constipation by keeping bowels moving and reduces the risk of bowel cancer. More than 90 per cent of adults in the UK don't eat enough fibre, according to the National Diet and Nutrition Survey (NDNS), with NHS guidelines recommending 30g of fibre a day. 2 The supplement is found naturally in oats Credit: Getty Oat beta-glucan supplements are available in the UK from health shops and online, often marketed for heart health or cholesterol. You'll need around 3g per day to match the study dose, typically taken as 1g before each meal. Holland and Barrett are selling a 14-day supply of Oatwell Original Oat Bran Powder with Beta-Glucan for £10.12 - which works out to 84p per dose.
Wales Online
21-05-2025
- Wales Online
Steven Bartlett ad for Tim Spector's Zoe Daily30+ banned for UPF free claim
Steven Bartlett ad for Tim Spector's Zoe Daily30+ banned for UPF free claim The authority says some of the ingredients used would be understood to be ultra-processed The advert featured a testimonial from Steve Bartlett An advert for nutrition brand Zoe featuring Dragons' Den star Steven Bartlett has been banned for misleadingly claiming that a supplement did not contain any ultra-processed ingredients. The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) found that Zoe's Daily30+ 'plant-based wholefood supplement' contained at least two ingredients – chicory root inulin and nutritional yeast flakes – that were not whole foods and had been through more than a minimal level of processing. The ASA said a Facebook ad for the product was therefore likely to mislead consumers by implying it did not contain any ingredients that would be considered ultra-processed. Zoe said it strongly refuted the ruling and was in the process of appealing against it. The ad, which stated the supplement contained chicory inulin, included a testimonial from Bartlett, who is an investor in Zoe, which read: 'This is a supplement revolution. No ultra-processed pills, no shakes, just real food.' The complainant, a professor in nutrition and food science who the ASA has not named, challenged whether Bartlett's claim misleadingly implied that the product did not contain any ultra-processed ingredients (UPFs). Responding to the complaint, Zoe said the ad did not claim Daily 30+ was not ultra-processed, or that it did not include any UPFs. Instead, the ad explained the product was not an ultra-processed pill, unlike other supplements that would be considered ultra-processed because they contained artificial flavourings and additives. Zoe said the advertised product was a combination of 32 different foods including vegetables, fruits, seeds and mushrooms, that was to be put directly on to other food to increase fibre intake. While some ingredients were powdered, the only liquid ingredient was chicory root inulin, used in the product for its fibre health benefit. Similarly, nutritional yeast flakes, which Zoe described as a commonly used culinary ingredient, was a form of heated yeast, had known health benefits that included B-vitamins and minerals and was a good source of protein. Article continues below They explained that none of the ingredients were typical UPF ingredients and the processes used could be replicated in a small-scale home kitchen. It added that the product was a plant mix that was distinctly different from UPF products high in additives, fat, salt and sugar that were associated with poor health outcomes, and that labelling of their product as UPF on the basis of a higher level of processing of two ingredients would create a misunderstanding and increase consumer misinformation. The ASA acknowledged that there was no universally accepted definition of UPFs, but it considered consumers would understand the claim 'wholefood supplement' to mean the product comprised solely of wholefood ingredients. It said Bartlett's testimony would have contributed to this overall impression. The ASA said: 'We acknowledged consumers were likely to understand that most food products had been subject to some level of processing, for example cleaning or chopping. They were unlikely to consider foods that had undergone that minimal level of processing to be UPFs. However, at least two ingredients, chicory root inulin and nutritional yeast flakes, were not whole foods and had been through more than a minimal level of processing. 'Nutritional yeast was manufactured, and chicory root inulin was extracted using an industrial process. For the latter, the extraction process included slicing and steeping, purification using carbonated water as well as evaporation, partial enzymatic hydrolysis (adding of enzymes) and filtration. While some of those processes were relatively simple in isolation, we considered the number of stages used in processing went beyond what consumers would interpret as minimal and we considered they would likely understand chicory root inulin as UPFs.' It said it considered Bartlett's testimony to imply that the product did not contain any ingredients that consumers would interpret as ultra-processed 'when that was not the case and was therefore likely to mislead'. It ruled that the ad must not appear in the form complained about, adding: 'We told Zoe not to make claims that their products did not contain UPF ingredients if consumers were likely to interpret the ingredients to be ultra-processed.' Zoe co-founder Professor Tim Spector said: 'We categorically reject the idea that this advert is misleading, or that Daily30+ – or any of its ingredients – could be classed as ultra-processed. The ad clearly states that Daily30+ doesn't contain ultra-processed pills or shakes. That's because it doesn't. It is made entirely from whole food ingredients, and is designed to be added to meals – not taken as a pill or a shake. The claim is factually accurate and irrefutable.' He added: 'We fully stand by Daily30+'s integrity, its health benefits for consumers, and our expertise in nutrition science and improving public health. To go after a product that is designed to improve health whilst doing very little about the harmful marketing and advertising of unhealthy junk food to children and vulnerable individuals is nothing short of disgraceful.' A spokesman for Bartlett said: 'For the avoidance of any doubt, this ruling is not against Steven Bartlett whatsoever. The advert was not posted by Steven, nor did it appear on any of his channels. It was posted by Zoe Ltd on their own channel. Article continues below 'The ASA issued this ruling after receiving a single complaint from a member of the public, and it is directed solely at Zoe Ltd. It is for Zoe Ltd to debate the merits of the ruling.'
