The Lancet, 18 November 2025

Ultra-Processed Foods and Human Health

This 3-paper Series reviews the evidence about the increase in ultra-processed foods in diets globally and highlights the association with many non-communicable diseases. This rise in ultra-processed foods is driven by powerful global corporations who employ sophisticated political tactics to protect and maximise profits. Education and relying on behaviour change by individuals is insufficient. Deteriorating diets are an urgent public health threat that requires coordinated policies and advocacy to regulate and reduce ultra-processed foods and improve access to fresh and minimally processed foods.

The Series provides a different vision for the food system with emphasis on local food producers, preserving cultural foods transitions and economic benefits for communities.

Editorial

Series