#ultra-processed foods

#ultra-processed foods

Before the pandemic, office life left many of us at the mercy of overpriced meal deals, vending machines, and a rushed lunch break. Research shows only 37 per cent of European workers took a full lunch break when working on-site, while 10 per cent of UK workers skip their lunch breaks altogether. Data suggests that office lunches can lean heavily on ultra-processed foods (UPFs) - quick and convenient, but low in nutritional value.

Later this month, the United Nations General Assembly will discuss a proposal to eliminate trans-fatty acids (trans fats) from diets. These fats are mainly produced industrially. They clog up arteries, increasing people's risk of a heart attack or death. Some 60 countries are already on a path to eliminating these fats and the World Health Organization has certified that 9 have removed industrially produced trans fats from their food supply.

Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) contribute to nearly 70% of children’s calories, correlating with a rise in childhood chronic diseases, signaling a public health crisis.

The MAHA Commission's report highlights alarming declines in children's health, attributing these issues to poor diet, over-medicalization, and lack of physical activity.