#ultra-processed-foods

#ultra-processed-foods

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.

Over the past 50 years, rates of obesity and type-2 diabetes have soared, while sperm quality has plummeted. Driving these changes could be the increasing popularity of ultra-processed foods, which have been linked to a range of poor health outcomes. However, scientists still aren't sure whether it's the industrial nature of the ingredients themselves, the processing of the foods, or whether it's because they lead people to eat more than they should.

The bill, AB 1264, would task state scientists with identifying particularly harmful ultra-processed foods based on scientific research linking them to cancer, cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders, neurological or behavioral issues, and other health harms for phase out by 2032.

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.